The General Administration Office in Taunggyi, Southern Shan State, has issued directives to use the People Surveillance and Management System (PSMS) to monitor and arrest individuals connected to revolutionary forces. According to the directive issued on August 4, the Myanmar Police Force is intensifying efforts to arrest military deserters, police deserters, fugitives, and those associated with revolutionary activities using the PSMS system. This system includes features for cross-checking guest information at accommodations, vehicle line inspection systems, police verification systems, and systems for matching photos and video files of wanted persons without identification cards.
The system is being used to identify and arrest members of CRPH, NUG, and PDF by cross-referencing photos and video footage found on social media platforms. According to local sources, this newly implemented system in Taunggyi has begun inspections in Phaya Phyu ward, and checkpoints have been established at the entrances to Kalaw, Hopone, and Ywa Ngan. This year, two women have been arrested – one being a CDM participant and another in connection with payment service activities. Local sources indicate that the system may be used as a means of extortion, particularly targeting young people through official tablet-based inspections.
Under the military council’s directive, hotel, motel, and guesthouse owners in Taunggyi Township must submit their guests’ personal information to relevant administrative and security organizations. Additionally, passengers at city entry/exit points, bus terminals, and transportation routes will be subject to PSMS system checks, requiring travelers to accurately provide their personal information. Bus terminal managers must thoroughly verify passenger information and submit it to relevant administrative offices and police stations. The directive threatens legal action against those who fail to comply with these requirements, demonstrating the military council’s intensifying surveillance efforts against opposition forces and civilians.
