The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) is allegedly collecting extortion money (taxes) amid ongoing tensions with the Myanmar army in Muse Township, northern Shan State, locals report.
Locals report that the ethnic army has set so-called tax collection points on the section of the main road near Hpaikyawng area in Seilant village tract, which connects Muse and Namhkam Townships.
“Their tax collection point is only about two furlongs from where the fighting is taking place. Despite the fighting going on there, the tax collection continues unabated here. Even on Sabbath days, they collect taxes. For private cars they demand 3,000 kyats; for trucks and mini passenger buses 300,000 kyats; and for big trucks 900,000 kyats,” said one resident.
According to locals, the TNLA collects taxes on the Pyidaungsu Road which connects Muse and Namkham Townships, and its collection point is only about two furlongs from the foot of Loitaymein Hill where the fighting is taking place between the Myanmar army and TNLA.
Drivers who can’t afford the sum demanded by the ethnic army troops are being held in Narhsengle village of Seilant village tract, according to driver who experienced it.
“They detain the drivers who can’t pay the amount at Narhsengle village. They aren’t released until their families or someone else brings the ransom demanded. The sum that they demand is only for a single transport; not for the whole year. This has caused great difficulties for the drivers and scared them,” he said.
Locals also said they were concerned about the tense security situation as well as having to pay taxes to the TNLA.
Repeated calls to TNLA’s spokesperson about the tax collection went unanswered.
The TNLA has increased its tax collection activities in 2023. The armed conflict between the Myanmar army and the TNLA began to intensify after the 1 June meeting between the junta and the Three Brotherhood Alliance in Mongla.
Sent by Shan Herald.