Reports have emerged of extensive corruption and illegal business activities by Brigadier General Min Thiha, Commander of Strategic Operations Command-13 based in Bokpyin, Tanintharyi Region. According to military sources, he has been operating illegal businesses including karaoke (KTV) establishments and massage parlors in the town, leading to numerous complaints. The businesses are reportedly run through Major Ye Lwin Oo, with a local businessman serving as a front.
The KTV and massage establishments are located in the heart of Bokpyin town near the central market, not in the outskirts. Brigadier General Min Thiha is the primary beneficiary of these operations, with profits being distributed between Major Ye Lwin Oo and the nominal business owner. Local residents have filed complaints about noise disturbances from these establishments operating late into the night. However, no action has been taken as the current District Administrator is from the same Defense Services Academy class as Brigadier General Min Thiha, creating a conflict of interest in addressing these issues.
Beyond these illegal entertainment venues, Brigadier General Min Thiha has also established a system of extortion and illegal trade through Major Ye Lwin Oo. The Major has been given authority over all entry and exit checkpoints in the town, where he collects unofficial payments from businesses and traders. According to internal military sources, Major Ye Lwin Oo manages all revenue collection operations in Bokpyin, with proceeds being channeled back to the Commander.
While focusing primarily on business ventures and financial gains, Brigadier General Min Thiha has delegated military operational matters to his deputy, Lieutenant Colonel Myo Thant. However, Lieutenant Colonel Myo Thant was killed in an attack by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) on August 25, 2023, while conducting a field inspection near Bokpyin. The military is currently investigating Brigadier General Min Thiha in connection with this death. Brigadier General Min Thiha, a graduate of Defense Services Academy Intake 41, has served in various positions including as G1 at Northern Command in 2018, as Putao Strategic Commander in 2022, and was promoted to his current position as SOC-13 Commander in March 2024, during which time he also received a military service medal from Min Aung Hlaing.
