The military forces have conducted raids on several villages in Htone Bo Township, Bago Region, attempting to forcibly recruit young people as porters. Starting from the morning of March 9, the military entered Daung Lay Village, Daung Gyi Village, Anya Tan Village, Gway Chaung Gyi Village, Thapay San Village, Thalika Village, and Chaung Gwa Village. When all young people fled from the villages, the military responded by burning down houses and looting gold, silver, and other valuable possessions from the villagers, according to local residents.
Particularly in Thapay San Village, which was raided around 6 PM, all young people managed to escape, leaving only women in the village. The military then proceeded to burn down houses and motorcycles. They also forcibly removed jewelry from the remaining women and looted livestock including chickens and ducks, as well as food supplies. Currently, the military continues to occupy these villages while young people remain in hiding. The military’s presence in the area has created a climate of fear and instability, forcing many residents to abandon their homes and possessions.
The military’s aggressive actions in these villages were reportedly triggered by an incident that occurred on March 6 in Thalika Village. On that day, resistance forces from Battalion 3801, Column 5 of the Gyobingauk Hero Guerrilla Force in Thayarwaddy District attacked and killed administrator Myint Oo, who had been attempting to forcibly recruit young people for military service. Following this incident, the military launched these operations in the area. According to local sources, the military continues to maintain a presence in the villages, while young people remain in hiding to avoid forced military service. The situation has created significant hardship for the local population, who have lost both property and their sense of security in their own communities.
