University student arrested for Ya Ba

Ah Je’ Thar – A student at Moulmein University was arrested for possession of 50 methamphetamine pills, sometimes referred to in Southeast Asia as “Ya Ba,” on January 12 in Moulmein, the capital of Mon State.

According to local authorities, the student was in her first year of Botany studies at Moulmein University and living in the 20th St. Myaintharyar Ward. A young man was also present in the residence at the time of her arrest.

An official from the Mu-Pon vice squad said the student’s detention led to another arrest and the seizure of 72 additional methamphetamine pills in Mudon Town.

Last Sunday, authorities from the New Mon State Party (NMSP)’s anti-drug campaign arrested three methamphetamine dealers in the NMSP-controlled area of Thaton District and are currently investigating the case.

“We have evidence that the drug dealers are connected to surrendered armed groups. The government allows these groups to use small firearms in the downtown area of the city,” said a member of NMSP’s executive committee. In mid-December, police officials seized some small guns during the arrest of 15 young people using methamphetamine pills in the woods of Mudon Township.

A Mon member of parliament told IMNA that in 2012, the number of youths using methamphetamine increased in Mon State.