More Than 400 Youths Arrested and Extorted in Thaton Township #Mon, as Forced Conscription Intensifies

October 27, 2025

HURFOM: Over the past two months, Junta forces and police have arrested 411 young men in Thaton Township, demanding 5 million Kyats per person for their release, according to local residents and sources close to the authorities. Those unable to pay were reportedly sent to military training camps.

The coordinated arrests were led by Captain San Win Aung, a member of the township administrative council, and Deputy Police Chief Myint Naing of Thaton District. Between early September and October, both officials allegedly ordered the arrests of youths, business owners, and other residents believed able to pay large sums of money.

“The Pyu Saw Htee militia under Captain San Win Aung is mainly responsible. They patrol every night, arresting people from their homes or on the streets. If you can pay, you’re released — if not, you’re sent to training. So far, around 411 people have been arrested, mostly workers and business owners,” a local resident told HURFOM.
Family members of those detained described the ordeal as extortion-driven and terrifying. One relative said their son was arrested in early October and sent to Military Training Batch 18 after they failed to pay the ransom.

Sources close to the Junta confirmed that around 300 detainees were released after paying, while more than 40 were sent to military camps. Arrests continue daily, with an estimated 100 to 200 young men detained each month in Thaton under forced conscription orders.

“In Thaton, the Pyu Saw Htee, soldiers, and police target people who have money — mostly business owners. It’s been ongoing for two months, and the number keeps increasing,” said another local source.
Noted update: Field monitors confirmed that more arrests took place during the third week of October as military units continued door-to-door checks under the pretext of “security clearance.” Families are now living in fear, with many young people fleeing to avoid being taken for conscription.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News