Intensive forced conscription by Myanmar's military junta has driven young men into hiding across Sagaing Region, leaving women to take over physically demanding jobs—such as commercial water delivery—traditionally performed by men.

Local sources report that arbitrary arrests and forced recruitment have surged since June 2026, with crackdowns escalating sharply this month.

Community members estimate at least 40 men have been abducted over the past two months in Sagaing alone, though the actual figure is believed to be much higher.

The constant threat of detention has effectively cleared urban streets of young men, severely impacting local logistics and manual labor services.

"They are snatching people right out of city neighborhoods. No men dare to go out day or night," a resident told Mizzima. "Water delivery requires carrying 20-liter bottles, which men usually do, but now only women are doing the deliveries. Men don't dare travel street-to-street; they only risk working inside enclosed factories."

The junta's recruitment sweeps—locally known as "porter sweeps"—primarily target young men aged 18 to 20, followed by those in their early 30s.

The crackdowns have become so indiscriminate that even the children of lower-ranking police constables are being detained, particularly in Sagaing’s Ohbo Ward.

"They don't even spare the children of ordinary police personnel," a family member of a police officer said, adding that many government employees are sending their children to other cities for protection.

Similar conscription drives are being reported nationwide.

Junta forces have intensified home raids, highway checkpoints, and street stops across key regions, including Yangon, Magway, and major townships in Mandalay Region such as Myingyan, Meiktila, Thazi, and Pyawbwe.

Since enforcing the Compulsory Military Service Law, the military junta has reportedly mobilized 27 recruitment batches, with advance drafting already underway for the 28th batch.