According to local sources, the Myanmar military is intensifying inspections of food transport at the Ma Hlwe Taung checkpoint on the border between Mon State and Tanintharyi Region.
The military forces stationed at the checkpoint have been strictly inspecting the transport of household medicines, rice, cooking oil, and fuel. If any goods exceed the quantities set by the authorities, they are confiscated.
“Inspections at Ma Hlwe Taung have become more severe. Recently, they’ve tightened checks, especially on vehicles transporting rice, cooking oil, and fuel. Over the past few days, some truck drivers from Tanintharyi were detained for carrying more rice bags than the allowed limit. Drivers from Kanbauk Township have been hit the hardest. To negotiate with those at the checkpoint, drivers are forced to pay bribes ranging from 1 million to 4 million kyats per truck, depending on the goods,” said a local man from Kanbauk.
Ko Kyaw, an editor from FE5 Tanintharyi, stated that in resistance-strong areas of Tanintharyi Region, the military has been increasingly restricting food transportation. In some townships, the military has completely blocked the transport of medicine and food.
“Most of the military checkpoints now severely restrict the transport of medicines, rice, and fuel, especially those heading to stronghold areas of the resistance. Checkpoints along the route from Myeik to Tanintharyi Township have also become stricter. Some checkpoints have virtually banned all such transport. More than 20 drivers have been arrested in recent months for allegedly carrying medicines,” Ko Kyaw added.
It’s reported that, depending on ongoing battles in various townships across Tanintharyi, the military has blocked or limited food transport, leading to shortages and soaring prices.
Currently, townships like Yebyu, Launglon, and Thayetchaung—known for strong resistance activity and frequent clashes—are facing tighter restrictions on food transportation by military forces.
Due to the military’s restrictions on transporting rice, food, and medicine, thousands of displaced civilians are now experiencing severe shortages, according to FE5 Tanintharyi.
