Arrests of young men in Yangon have reportedly increased after news emerged that all males aged 18 to 35 from Yangon Region would be required to serve in the military. Local sources confirm that authorities are ramping up detentions in response to draft avoidance.

According to reports, the junta issued instructions in early December mandating compulsory military service, prohibiting the long-practiced option of paying for substitutes. The directive also includes penalties for draft evasion, with authorities threatening to conduct raids in wards, streets, and homes if there is significant resistance.

the junta has intensified inspections following this announcement , including checks on overnight guest lists submitted to local authorities and increased surveillance at intersections in Yangon. Residents report that young men are being detained under various pretexts.

“They are mainly targeting young men. Arrests happen on the streets, during guest list inspections at homes, or even for activities like watching news on Facebook. I’ve personally seen these arrests escalate,” said a resident of Ward 10 in Thakayta Township.

A local from Shwe Pauk Kan Township shared a similar account, saying, “I’ve heard about arrests in different areas. Last night in South Dagon Township, around 9 pm, my sister’s friend saw young men being forced to kneel.”

The Rangoon Scout Network (RSN), which monitors the junta’s activities in Yangon, reported 59 cases of young men being detained in the region between 1 and 15 December, with seven cases still to be confirmed.

“There’s been a significant increase in arrests to meet military recruitment quotas. Arrests occur during guest list checks, street patrols, or targeted raids based on individual names. They’re also detaining individuals with drug issues and underground activists. It’s getting harder for the council to fill its recruitment batch, especially as rumours spread about stricter draft measures starting next month,” an RSN official said.

In response to the crackdown, many residents in Yangon are reducing nighttime activities.

“By 8 pm, the streets are empty. It feels like midnight. Young people, in particular, are avoiding going out at night,” said a resident from North Okkalapa Township.

Additionally, some young men have reportedly fled to border areas to avoid being conscripted, with others seeking opportunities to leave the country altogether, according to Yangon locals.