Tightened Security and Mass Arrests in Mon State Ahead of the Junta’s Election Campaign Period

October 30, 2025

HURFOM: In Mon State, the Junta’s election commission has sharply increased security operations and road blockades even before the official start of campaigning by candidates, according to local residents.
Over the past two weeks, areas west of the Thanlwin River in Thaton District have faced stricter travel restrictions and surprise raids. At least 70 young people were reportedly arrested within a single week, in operations believed to be linked to the junta’s broader security and territorial control measures.

The junta-controlled Union Election Commission (UEC) has announced that the campaign period for candidates will run from October 28 to December 26, lasting 60 days.
Local sources said the military has deployed large numbers of troops and police in areas where resistance forces remain strong — including Kyaikhto, Bilin, Thaton, and Ye Townships. Additional troops have also been sent to other townships. Heavily armed soldiers and special units have established new security outposts and checkpoints, creating an atmosphere of fear and anxiety for residents who rely on daily movement to work, trade, and find food.

A resident of Bilin Township told HURFOM’s field reporters that military forces have now set up camps in villages that previously had no security presence, and are arbitrarily arresting and assaulting civilians they claim to “suspect.”
“The soldiers are constantly stopping vehicles and extorting money,” the resident said. “Young people are being arrested almost every day. Police and Pyu Saw Htee members are everywhere , they come to the village, take people away for questioning, and sometimes beat them. Even those who are just working or traveling are not safe.”

In recent days, security checks have intensified at all entry and exit gates of major towns, as well as in unexpected locations within urban areas. Locals said soldiers have been conducting random searches, blocking roads, and patrolling neighborhoods day and night.

Meanwhile, the Junta’s election commission has prohibited public gatherings, processions, and door-to-door campaigning, citing “security concerns.” Political parties and candidates have been instructed to conduct their campaigns under these strict limitations.

According to local election monitors, nine political parties have submitted over 250 candidate names to contest in Mon State under the Junta’s supervision. The first phase of the Junta’s planned election, scheduled for December 28, is expected to include polling in Kyaikhto, Thaton, Mawlamyine, Chaungzone, and Kyaikmayaw Townships.

However, with growing arrests, road closures, and visible militarization, many residents say they no longer feel safe in their own communities. Daily life has been overshadowed by fear, surveillance, and the constant threat of arbitrary arrest, realities that make any claim of a free or fair election deeply questionable.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News