Local administrators under the military junta in Loikaw are collecting information on residents who have returned to the city, according to local sources.

Many displaced people who had been sheltering in IDP camps and monasteries in southern Shan State have started returning to Loikaw because the junta stopped accepting them in those areas. Since February, junta-appointed administrators have been gathering data on these returnees, as well as others who have come back for various reasons.

“They didn’t explain why they were collecting the data. They just asked how many family members we have, why the whole family didn’t return, and where the others are now,” said a woman who recently returned to Loikaw.

According to residents, those staying in Loikaw temporarily are not being included in the registration process. Some locals speculate that this survey may be for military conscription purposes.

“As far as I know, only the People’s Militia who support the junta is still present in Loikaw. I haven’t heard of forced conscription here yet. But since it’s happening everywhere else, I think it’s Loikaw’s turn now. That’s probably why they’re collecting this data. Why else would they need to register people returning to their own homes?” said a male resident.

Currently, the military junta is attempting to demonstrate control over Loikaw by organizing events such as road reopening ceremonies and bus terminal inaugurations. According to residents, a market-opening event will also be held soon.