According to residents, the military junta has tightened security in Mawlamyine Township, Mon State, and increased its inspections.
Since November 16, when the Southeast Regional Command based in Mawlamyine was attacked, the junta has tightened security in all townships. There is an increased presence of junta forces at the entrances and exits, and there are increased inspections.
“Before, only the traffic police were there to check motorcycles. Now, the junta army is present, conducting license checks and checking motorcycle boxes. If you appear suspicious, they conduct phone checks. Additionally, we’ve noticed CCTV cameras are being installed on some streets,” said a resident of Mawlamyine.
The resident added that, in addition to strict checks guest list checks are being carried out at night, primarily targeting the youth.
Another resident stated there are increased checks not only within the township but also along the Mawlamyine-Mudon highway.
“Right now, the junta is inspecting people more thoroughly at the toll gates. Previously, the junta didn’t check girls; they only checked boys. Now, they are very strict. They open the bike box and check. They ask questions like ‘Where are you going? Where did you come from? What do you do? Where do you live? Where is your workplace?’ – that’s how they check the details,” said one resident.
In Mudon Township, since the Mudon police station was attacked, junta forces tightened security in the township. According to residents, some of the town’s roads are now restricted for any travel.
Increased security and more thorough inspections, is leaving residents worried about the potential for arrest and free movement.
