Combating Illegal Trade: Illegal border trade gates along Thaungyin River cleared

Security forces have cleared illegal border trade gates and warehouses along the Thaungyin River in Myawaddy Township of Kayin State, where terrorist armed groups had been collecting money and importing goods illegally from abroad.

The Tatmadaw has regained control of the area and is demolishing unauthorized trade gates, storage buildings, and related structures. The clearance operations, which began on October 31, have removed illegal trade sites at various places.

They also inspected and cleared several guard posts. Local residents said that illegal imports through these unauthorized routes cause major tax losses for the country. They urged that all goods should be imported only through official border trade zones, noting that some neighboring countries have opened official gates near illegal routes and continue to collect revenue.