Regime detains at least six locals in Kyaukphyu

By Admin 21 Nov 2023

DMG Newsroom
21 November 2023, Kyaukphyu

Myanmar’s military regime detained at least six local people in Kyaukphyu, Arakan State, on November 20, residents said.

Junta soldiers took U Maung Kyar Sein, 60, and U Nyi Nyi, 63, from Kulabartaung Ward, and U Aung Than Soe, 50, and Ko Maung Kyaw Myint, 28, from Toe Chae Ward, from their homes.

“We have not been able to contact the detainees and the reason for the arrests remains unknown. The three who were arrested are a bit older, so their families are worried about their safety,” said a relative of an arrestee.

The regime arrested two workers from Tha Li Swa teashop in Kyaukphyu’s Kulabartaung Ward on Monday, locals said. Residents in Kyaukphyu are worried about their safety due to the junta’s series of arrests of locals.

“We are concerned for our safety because junta soldiers are deployed at junctions and patrol round the clock. I have to live with anxiety about when it will be my turn to be arrested by the military junta, so I have to take care of everything,” said a local man.

Four residents in Kyaukphyu identified as U Than Hlaing, Ko Nagar, U Hla Kyi and Ko William were apprehended by junta soldiers on November 13.

At least 12 local people in Kyaukphyu have been detained since renewed hostilities between the military and Arakan Army (AA) in Arakan State.

There were no clashes in Kyaukphyu during the previous fighting, so the regime should not arrest, inspect and tighten the security on residents, said a community elder who did not want to be named for security reasons.

The junta’s Kyauk Talone checkpoint outside Kyaukphyu on November 13 imposed a ban on people from entering or leaving Kyaukphyu town. The regime also imposed a ban on sea transport for one month, from November 19 to December 19.