Civilians Beaten and Extorted as Junta Troops Tighten Control in Dawei SEZ

October 30, 2025

HURFOM: Junta forces conducting military operations in the Dawei Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Yebyu Township have been arresting, beating, and extorting local residents, according to villagers from the Nabulae area.

Since early October, the Junta has deployed large numbers of troops to the Nabulae area inside the SEZ, moving between villages and setting up checkpoints. On October 24 and 25, three villagers, two from Paradat and one from Thein Gyi, were stopped by Junta soldiers while traveling toward Yebyu town. They were beaten, tortured, and detained for three days before being released on October 27, after paying over one million kyats each.

“The soldiers were hiding along the road. They arrested the men, beat and tortured them, searched their belongings, and took their phones and motorbikes. They demanded money and released them only after payment. All three were badly injured and needed medical treatment. Many others are afraid the same will happen to them,” said a local woman.

Residents report that Junta troops frequently stop travelers in the SEZ, especially near the Yebyu–Deep Sea Port road intersection and nearby junctions, extorting money before allowing them to pass. “In October, they stopped people traveling by motorbike or car almost every day,” a local man said.

Fighting between the Junta’s forces and local resistance groups broke out in the Nabulae area on October 18. As of October 29, Junta soldiers had occupied homes in Thein Gyi and Yamin Gyi villages, forcing many residents to flee.
The situation in the Dawei SEZ remains tense, with civilians living in fear of renewed raids, arrests, and violence.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News