By Ra Wai / MPA

The People Defense Team in Thabeikkyin Township (Pa Ka Pha – Thabeikkyin) announced that severe punishment will be imposed on drug dealers and users operating within the People Defense Forces (PDF)-controlled areas of Thabeikkyin Township, Mandalay Region.

Pa Ka Pha – Thabeikkyin has issued a warning against the possession, use, or sale of narcotics, including opium, heroin, marijuana, and cannabis oil, within the township.

“This is a law that must be enforced regardless of which government is in power. There have been previous arrests, and we will continue to take strict measures during this transitional period in accordance with interim policies,” said Ko Naga Ni, head of Pa Ka Pha – Thabeikkyin told MPA.

Reports indicate that previous incidents resulted in the arrest of drug dealers and users, and the confiscated drugs were immediately destroyed. However, due to the absence of formal township governance during the transitional period, detainees remain under the custody of Pa Ka Pha.

“We have taken responsibility for all detainees. Since the township court is not yet operational during this transitional period, we are holding them in custody. Once the interim administration is fully established, we will transfer them to the court for legal proceedings,” Ko Naga Ni added.

He further mentioned that investigations are ongoing to identify more individuals involved in the drug trade.

The majority of arrested drug users are young people, though some elderly individuals are also reportedly involved.

Pa Ka Pha – Thabeikkyin urged the public to report any suspicious activities to prevent the dangers posed by narcotics and to ensure effective enforcement.

PDF forces have taken control of multiple military bases in the township and officially seized the town on 25 August.