Drug Seizure : Drugs valued at 195.85 billion kyats arrested

As the national government, it is designated as a national duty to effectively prevent and eradicate drug trafficking that endangers the entire human race, including future generations of youth, and efforts are being intensified. It has been learned that the AA terrorist insurgent group was caught with 3,438 kilograms of ice and 2,198 kilograms of ketamine, valued at approximately 195.85 billion kyats, intended to be transported to Rakhine State and Malaysia.

As the national government increases inspections and seizures along the routes commonly used for drug trafficking, and cooperates with neighboring countries to conduct joint operations to suppress drug trafficking, it has been observed that drug traffickers are taking advantage of maritime routes and shifting to waterway transportation.

Additionally, it is known that the AA insurgent group is also involved in drug trafficking and uses the proceeds to purchase weapons and ammunition to carry out terrorist activities within Rakhine State, as well as to oppress, persecute, and kill innocent civilians through armed force.

Accordingly, based on tips from local residents who do not want drug trafficking, sales, and violent acts, it was learned that on September 24, 2025, narcotics from Shan State were to be transported through Yangon to Rakhine State and Malaysia.

Security forces intercepted and searched, resulting in the arrest of driver and spare-driver on the Hlegu-Phaunggyi road in Hlegu Township together with NISSAN CONDOR vehicle and two individuals, who rented and connected the vehicle intended for drug transport on September 25.

According to the confessions of the detainees, it was learned that the drugs were to be transported from Thama-Seikta Beach in Thonegwa Township to Malaysia. Therefore, a joint security team conducted the arrest operation. From September 27 to 29, 16 people involved in the drug trafficking were arrested along with four motor vehicles, 3,438 kilograms of ice, and 2,198 kilograms of ketamine, with the total value of drugs seized estimated at approximately 195.85 billion kyats.

According to the statements of the arrested individuals, Sai Naw Kham (wanted for arrest), a resident of Karli Town, was responsible for transporting drugs from Wam Hoi area, Kye Thi Township, Loilin District, Shan State (South). Therefore, actions will continue to be taken effectively in accordance with the law against those arrested with illegal drugs.

Efforts are ongoing to detect and arrest repeat offenders, including fugitives. The public is also encouraged to confidentially report any information about drug trafficking to the relevant authorities. Informants and collaborators who assist in arrests will be rewarded confidentially and appropriately. This announcement is hereby made for public awareness.