Military council leader Min Aung Hlaing’s upcoming visit to Bagan-Nyaung-U has prompted the military to significantly increase security measures in the Nyaung-U township and ancient Bagan city, according to local administrative sources. Since early July, the military has substantially expanded security operations in Bagan while intensifying military column activities in Nyaung-U township. The military has deployed local battalions and columns to conduct extensive clearance operations, attempting to demonstrate control over the Bagan and Nyaung-U regions. Security measures include setting up guard posts and conducting mine sweeps inside Bagan’s temples.
Local officials involved in security arrangements for the military leader’s visit report that guest registration and city security measures have been increased approximately five-fold compared to previous levels. The regional government and military command are preparing reception and hospitality arrangements for Min Aung Hlaing’s visit, which is expected to take place during the third week of July, security conditions permitting. In Nyaung-U town, plans include the inauguration of a new hall built on the site of a former Martyrs’ Monument. Military columns have increased their presence in villages throughout Nyaung-U township, reportedly to eliminate People’s Defense Force presence in the area.
Since late June, the military’s extensive clearance operations in Nyaung-U township have forced thousands of residents to flee from numerous villages including Chaung, Anauk Tone, Zeesamyint, Pwetain, Gyokan, Saka, Kyaukpyinkan, Kyaoe, Myaythantaung, Matuypin, Pyawbwe, Myolut, Nyaunghlut, Ywartha, Milaunhzar, Kyatokyun, Myaung, Kanneipauk, Tawywa, and Kyaukkan. Local residents report that the military has conducted successive raids on villages including Chaunghshe, Anauk Tone, Pwetain, Kyaukpyinkan, and Myaung, burning houses and forcibly confiscating civilian property.
The military’s operations have resulted in widespread displacement and destruction of civilian property across the region. The intensification of security measures ahead of Min Aung Hlaing’s visit has severely impacted local communities, with many forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods. The military’s actions, including the destruction of the Martyrs’ Monument and the construction of new facilities, represent significant changes to local infrastructure and historical sites. The situation continues to deteriorate as military columns maintain their presence in the area, conducting searches and establishing control measures that have disrupted civilian life throughout the Nyaung-U township.
