Some residents in Hparlein area of Ye Township, Mon State, have reportedly been subjected to extortion demands by an unidentified local armed group, according to local sources.
Since early June, individuals traveling to plantations and farms in the Hparlein area have reportedly been approached by an unidentified armed group seeking money, claiming the funds would be used to purchase weapons.
According to a person close to one of the victims, those targeted were asked to pay around 5 million kyats and were instructed not to disclose the matter to others.
“They were dressed in civilian clothes, so we could not tell whether they were military personnel or members of a revolutionary force. They spoke only Burmese. They said the money was needed to support the purchase of weapons,” the source said.
Residents said they are currently facing difficulties in reporting the incidents to local administrative authorities.
“They told us not to inform the village administrator or anyone else about it. They spoke politely and did not make any direct threats. That was all,” the source added.
In recent days, residents in the Hparlein area have become increasingly cautious in their daily movements and activities due to growing concerns over the incidents.
Local residents said that since early 2025, both military junta troops and local revolutionary forces have frequently entered and operated in villages across the Hparlein area.
As a result, residents said it is difficult to determine which armed group is responsible for the reported extortion demands.
