Residents of Gwa town report that the military junta checkpoints on the road between Gwa Township in Arakan State and Ayeyarwady Region are extorting money from travelers.
A resident of Gwa said that the Beda, Maung Tan, Kyauk Khe Chaung and Yae Nant Thar checkpoints on the road connecting Gwa – the southernmost town in Arakan State – to Ayeyarwady Region are extorting money from travelers.
“They start checking as soon as people leave Gwa township. There are many checkpoints, and some of them don’t even have a name. More money is extorted at these checkpoints. The checks take a long time. They charge different amounts for cars and motorbikes,” the resident said.
Local travelers from Gwa report that motorcycles are charged 50,000 kyat, while cars are charged 100,000 kyat.
According to the locals, the junta checkpoints even extort money from those engaged in small-scale trade between Arakan State’s townships, including Gwa, and Ayeyarwady Region, depending on the type and volume of goods being transported.
In addition, it is reported that local youths traveling from Arakan State to Yangon Region are asked for recommendation letters from junta officials and immigration officers in their respective areas. Without these, they are extorted for money and denied permission to travel, according to Gwa residents.
A youth from Gwa said, “Some youths have recommendation letters from their senior officials or from the immigration. But they still can’t get a travel permit. Only students and staff are allowed to travel. Civilian youths can’t travel. They have to pay if they ask for money. Some are stranded and can no longer travel”
According to sources, substantial payments are also required to obtain letters of recommendation from military officers and immigration officials. In addition, Light Infantry Battalions 563 and 562 are stationed in Gwa town.
Locals report that while there have been no battles in Gwa Township, the junta has stepped up its military activities, including erecting permanent fences around its battalions, deploying heavy artillery positions on hills and strengthening security measures.
Sent by Narinjara.