Freelance journalist Maung Myo was arrested by junta troops at the Thanlwin River (Salween River) Bridge checkpoint in Hpa-an township, Karen State at around 6 p.m. on 10 May, according to a source close to him.

He was arrested whilst he was a passenger in a passenger van travelling from Myawaddy Town in Karen State to Mandalay, according to the source.

“He previously lived in Myawaddy and I don’t know why he was going to Mandalay. Previously, he worked for the Mekong News Agency. I don't know where he is working now. We are very concerned for his life because three journalists have been arrested and killed by the junta troops.

They [junta troops] will charge Maung Myo under various sections [of the law],” said a journalist close to him.

His colleagues told Mizzima that they do not know where Maung Myo is being detained and that they are particularly concerned for his safety.

The Military Council took power in Myanmar in a coup on 1 February, 2021. Since the coup, at least 140 foreign and local journalists have been arrested. According to figures released by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) three journalists have been killed by junta troops.