Junta troops, police arrest, extort some IDPs returning from Yangon to Sittwe

Narinjara News, July 7, 2025

Military Council forces and police are detaining and extorting some IDPs who are going back to their hometown Sittwe from Yangon.

"Their IDs are verified when they enter Sittwe Airport. Over the years, several of the IDs have faded. Those individuals are arrested by them. They also apprehend other individuals who may be vulnerable to extortion for a variety of reasons. They scrutinize suspicious people more. They are brought immediately to City Police Station No. (1) after being arrested if they are not believed,” a local stated.

This issue affects Sittwe residents who, for a variety of reasons, fled Sittwe for Yangon and are now returning home because they are struggling to find employment and other opportunities in Yangon.