By Zwe Ko/MPA
Forced conscription and arson attacks have escalated in villages near the Bago Yoma mountain range in western Bago Region, where the military junta’s administration has collapsed, according to local residents.
On Sunday, around 10 a.m., junta forces split into two columns and raided multiple villages near the Bago Yoma mountain range, including Chaung Khwa Gyi, Kyunhlakone, Wint Thayet, Kyae Ni Kone, Kwin Gyi, Tha Pyay San, Daung Gyi, Daung Lay, and Daung Sa Par Kwin.
During the operation, they arrested at least 10 young men, according to a resident of Daung Gyi village.
“They arrived in large numbers using cars and motorcycles. Many young men and other males fled, but some were caught and taken away. At least 10 people from Wint Thayet and nearby villages were arrested for forced military conscription. After the arrests, the troops withdrew. Some villagers have returned, but many remain disoriented and fearful,” the resident said.
These villages have become ungovernable for the junta, as their appointed administrators and village heads have been frequently targeted by revolutionary forces.
A female political activist from Oke Pho Township explained, “There are no more administrators in these villages. At least four administrators and village heads have been killed. That’s why the junta is likely retaliating by targeting young men.”
Revolutionary forces attempted to ambush the junta troops with landmines near Tha Pyay San village, but the attack was unsuccessful, according to Moe Kyaw Lay, commander of Battalion 5 under Brigade 3801 of the Gyobingauk Hero Guerrilla Force.
“The landmine attack didn’t inflict significant damage. The troops continued their advance and set fire to two houses at the edge of Tha Pyay San village. They also burned four motorcycles. Villagers have been displaced and are still in hiding,” he said.
In addition to forced conscription, junta troops looted homes abandoned by fleeing residents, according to a 40-year-old woman from Tha Pyay San village.
“They ransacked homes, stealing gold, cash, and even livestock like chickens and ducks. The military has since moved toward Htan Pin Chaung village. We don’t know if further clashes will erupt, but we’re too scared to stay and are preparing to flee,” she said.
Now, western Bago Region is required to provide at least 40 conscripts per military recruitment cycle. Villages that fail to meet these quotas—or where junta-appointed administrators have been killed—are being targeted for forced conscription and arson attacks.
Nationwide, the junta is grappling with severe troop shortages due to battlefield losses. In response, it enacted a conscription law on Feb.10, 2024, and has since intensified forced recruitment efforts, including the abduction of civilians under various pretexts.
