The government is stepping up efforts to combat drug trafficking, which poses a serious threat to society including future generations, by intensifying inspections along key transport routes and strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries. As a result, traffickers have increasingly been attempting to bypass checkpoints by using alternative routes.

Acting on a tip-off from a member of the public on 4 April 2026, security forces learned that narcotics were being transported from Yamethin to Padan. Authorities intercepted the suspects at Ywataw checkpoint in Natmauk Township, arresting Myo Min Aung along with a Toyota Prado. In a separate operation near Saingkaung Village, Natmauk Township, Min Min Khine and Hlaing Win were also arrested with a truck.

A total of 7.8 million stimulant tablets concealed in 39 sacks covered with lime bags were seized, with an estimated street value of K11.7 billion. Seized items included two vehicles and three male suspects.

According to initial investigations, the drugs were arranged by Kyaw Win Aung (alias Pa-O), who remains at large, and transported from the Wamhai area to near Bunywa Village in Kalaw Township. From there, the suspects carried the drugs along the Yamethin-Pyawbwe-Natmauk-Magway route, intending to deliver them to Padan and onward to An Township in Rakhine State.

Authorities will take effective legal action against those arrested and continue efforts to apprehend remaining suspects. The public is encouraged to report drug-related information confidentially, and informants will be rewarded accordingly. —MNA/KZL

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