Recaptured conscripts in Naypyidaw branded with facial tattoos to prevent desertion

Mizzima

Conscripts who attempt to flee military service in Naypyidaw are being subjected to forced facial tattooing upon recapture, according to testimonies from recent defectors.

In a video released by the Arakan Army (AA) on 11 April 2026, two youths in their early 20s who surrendered to the AA detailed the military’s new tactics used to deter desertion and ensure permanent identification.

A defector from Light Infantry Battalion (LIB) 366, under Military Operations Command (MOC) 10, testified in the video that tattoos such as unit names and the word “deserter” are inked onto the foreheads and cheeks of those caught.

“They do this so we can’t go back home or live there anymore. By tattooing the battalion names, they can easily recapture us. It makes it impossible to live in the city unnoticed. After that, they send us to the front lines to ensure we don’t dare flee again,” said one of the defectors.

He added that other deserters also had the word “deserter” tattooed on their cheeks. Those who joined the AA were reportedly conscripts from the security outposts of Defence Equipment Factory No. 16, specifically Point (500) Hill and its surrounding areas.

Furthermore, a conscript from LIB 362 under MOC 10 stated that military personnel in Naypyidaw arrested him on framed charges to force him into service.

“They searched my bag and planted WY (methamphetamine) tablets right in front of me. Claiming they found drugs, they took me to a house and kept me in chains. They asked if I wanted to join the army or go to prison. When I chose prison, they beat me up together. Eventually, I had to say I would join the army,” he recounted.

Following the activation of the People’s Military Service Law by former Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing on 10 February 2024, the first batch of training commenced on 8 April 2024.

It was officially announced that approximately 5,000 trainees would be recruited per batch. To date, up to Batch 21 have completed their training.