The local youths from several villages in Ye Township, Mon State, including Abaw, Duya, Zeephyu Thaung, and Ahsin, have reportedly been arrested and extorted by military junta forces conducting road inspections in the area.

In recent days, large numbers of junta troops have been stationed near the Abaw village monastery and at main village entrances, stopping travelers for questioning. Local residents said the soldiers are arbitrarily detaining young people without any specific charges or reasons.

A resident from Ye Township told the Independent Mon News Agency that those arrested are usually released only after their families pay money to police stations or military units.

“They mostly target young people. When someone is arrested, they call the family and demand money. Families have to pay between 20 lakh and 30 lakh kyats to secure their release,” the resident said.

According to relatives, youths whose families cannot pay immediately are kept in detention for several days before being released.

Because of these arrests, young residents from Abaw, Duya, Zeephyu Thaung, and Ahsin villages no longer dare to travel alone.

“No one dares to go anywhere alone, day or night. We only go out if we have company because we’re afraid of being taken away,” another resident said.

Local sources said that in October, at least ten young people were arrested in Ye Township but later freed after paying money to junta forces.

Similarly, people passing through military checkpoints in the township said they were forced to squat, stand under the hot sun, or carry bricks near the gate as punishment after being questioned.

Meanwhile, junta troops have intensified military operations across southern Myanmar, reportedly as part of “security clearance” efforts ahead of the planned election.