Mizzima

The Myanmar junta is reportedly continuing to detain 20 out of 60 residents in Ngazun Township in Mandalay as of 8 September.

According to local residents, more than 60 male residents of Tharkyin Village in Ngazun Township, Mandalay region, were arrested by the troops of the Military Council on two consecutive days, 3 and 4 September.

They were arrested and subsequently held at the Nandwin Monastery, which is currently occupied by military troops. Fortunately, on 5 and 6 September, more than 40 of those arrested were released. However, those who are considered wealthy are still being detained.

According to local reports, approximately 20 wealthy men who were not released were taken to Ngazun city for further interrogation. It is stated that they were transported from Tharkyin village to Nagzun city on 7 September, but the exact location where they are being held is currently unknown. 

According to the villagers, following this incident, the majority of residents from Tharkyin Village, which consists of over 1,000 households, have fled to nearby villages and towns. Only a small number of individuals have chosen to remain in the village.

According to local reports, on 1 September, the joint revolutionary forces conducted a drone strike on the military troops of the junta who were stationed near Tharkyin Village. In response to this attack, the military troops established their camp at the Nandwin Monastery in Tharkyin Village. Subsequently, they initiated an investigation and arrested several men from the village.

“It has been observed that the military troops of the junta are currently deploying weapons and making preparations in Kyauktalone Village and Tharkyin Village. I think that they are anticipating a potential attack from the defense forces and are taking precautions accordingly,” said a local source.

Local residents say approximately 100 military troops are currently stationed at the monastery, while around 300 troops have been deployed throughout Ngazun Township.