Junta Troops Tighten Security and Use Villagers as Human Shields in Kyaikmayaw Township, Mon State

October 30, 2025

HURFOM: According to local sources, on the morning of October 26, around 7 a.m., more than 200 junta troops from the Southeast Command based in Mawlamyine, the capital of Mon State, advanced into Kyaikmayaw Township.

The convoy moved through the Ataran River area and established positions in several villages, including Kyon Wan, Kyaik Paran, and Koh Bwee, under the Kyon Wan village tract. Troops have since set up bases inside these communities, tightening security and conducting intrusive house-to-house inspections.

“The soldiers first entered Kyun Kone village and then moved toward Ahlatt Kone, where they set up camp. They’ve been searching houses and banning villagers from going out at night. Four farmers who returned late from their fields were arrested and beaten,” said a resident from Koh Bwee village tract.

On the evening of October 27, four farmers from Ahlatt Kone village were also detained and beaten for being outside after dark. They were later released.

A source close to the junta confirmed that the troops are stationed in the area to “secure polling stations” in Kyon Wan and Kyaik Paran villages and to carry out so-called “clearance operations” to prepare for the upcoming election.

Residents in Kyaikmayaw fear that clashes could soon break out between junta troops and local resistance forces, including the Ramanya Mon Army (RMA) and allied groups.

“Resistance forces were last seen near Ahlatt Kone. When the junta troops came with reinforcements, they retreated to avoid a fight, but villagers are terrified. The soldiers have been arresting and beating people, accusing them of helping the resistance,” said another local resident.

Villagers also report that the junta troops have occupied homes and set up bases in the middle of residential areas, effectively using civilians as human shields. Movement restrictions have been imposed, and residents are forbidden from traveling after dark.

The junta forces have reportedly planned further operations along the Kwun Ngan, Kaw Done, and Kaw Panaw village roads in Kyaikmayaw Township, where tensions remain extremely high.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News