Residents in Mon villages along the Gyaing River on the border of Mon State and Karen State say security has deteriorated, due to groups of armed men claiming affiliation with Karen armed organizations who are reportedly involved in drug use and illegal activities.
In villages including Thanle, Kawtyetkha, Khayar, Kawtlamu and Zar Ta Pyin, armed individuals are said to gather at monasteries, road entrances and exits, and major junctions at night. Local residents allege that the groups openly use and sell narcotics.
A resident from the Gyaing River area said people are increasingly afraid to leave their homes after dark, as armed men under the influence of drugs frequently stop and question passersby.
“People here are facing serious problems. Armed men are staying at village rest houses and moving around constantly. They are present at village entrances and exits. No one dares to speak out, no matter how openly they sell or use drugs. At night, not only women but even men are afraid,” the resident said.
Sources also alleged that the armed group has been permitted to operate gambling activities and illegal trade in cooperation with local police in Zar Ta Pyin, resulting in abuses against civilians.
According to local sources, some of the individuals involved are ethnic Mon men who have registered as members of the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) and the Karen National Liberation Army–Peace Council (KNLA-PC). By affiliating with these groups, they are reportedly able to avoid military conscription and carry weapons.
The Gyaing River area has seen heightened military activity since April 2024, when clashes intensified between the military junta and revolutionary joint forces. Junta troops have since increased their presence along the Mon–Karen border.
Residents say they are now forced to live alongside the armed groups and face risks of arbitrary arrest, extortion and physical abuse.
