Junta Forces Extort Money from Mawlamyine Residents Under False Pretenses

July 25, 2024

HURFOM: Since early July 2024, the junta’s security forces—comprising soldiers, police officers, and local militia members—have intensified their extortion efforts in Mawlamyine, Mon State. They employ various pretexts to extort money from local residents and travelers.

The junta has established checkpoints at the city’s entrances, exits, and key road junctions, where they conduct thorough searches of vehicles, motorcycles, and mobile phones. Additionally, they patrol the city to inspect locals.

Mawlamyine residents have reported to the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM) that they are frequently subjected to extortion during these checks.

“There is no specific place or time for the checks. The most common locations are the city entrances, exits, and the bridge. They conduct checks daily and treat us poorly, constantly shouting and yelling. Even when they find nothing wrong, they try to extort us,” a Mawlamyine resident shared.

Moreover, junta forces have been rigorously checking “visitor reports” almost every day, particularly targeting displaced persons and house renters.

“They check the visitor reports daily, focusing on displaced individuals and renters,” continued the resident.

Local militia groups are also involved, conducting checks on travelers and extorting money from them. Alarmingly, they have also been reported to sexually abuse women.

The extortion of money and properties by the coup junta forces in Mon State has become increasingly pervasive. Residents have been subjected to arbitrary demands for money under the guise of various accusations or fabricated offenses. This systematic exploitation is not only a financial burden but also a source of fear and instability for the local population. The junta’s tactics range from setting up unauthorized checkpoints to invasive home inspections, creating an environment of constant intimidation and harassment.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News