By Ko Myo / MPA
A young man in Yangon has been released after reportedly being drugged with alcohol and sold to a military recruitment camp, highlighting a disturbing new trend of private individuals profiting from the country’s conscription drive.
The 18-year-old victim was lured by an online acquaintance to a meeting near the Kohtatgyi Pagoda in Sanchaung Township on 13 March.
After being encouraged to drink until intoxicated, he was abducted by a group of men and transported to a military facility in Intagaw, according to the Rangoon Scout Network (RSN).
His family was eventually able to secure his release after negotiating a ransom with his captors.
“The kidnappers initially demanded 7 million kyats (approx. $2,100) for his return,” an RSN official told MPA. “The family managed to negotiate a lower price, though the exact final amount remains unconfirmed.”
The youth, who was released on 15 March, bore visible signs of physical abuse.
“He was severely beaten during his time in the camp. He reported that both older and younger detainees were held there and were often forced to assault one another,” the official added.
The incident is not an isolated case. On the night of 14 March, another 18-year-old was reportedly abducted in South Okkalapa Township.
Witnesses say the victim was riding his bicycle when he was intentionally struck by a private car. A group of men then seized him and drove away.
The victim’s family received a call on 16 March, informing them that he was being held at the Bayint Naung interrogation centre. His current status remains unknown.
Since the implementation of the national conscription law, reports of “portering”—the forced abduction of civilians for military service—have surged across Myanmar’s major cities.
Rights groups warn that criminal gangs are now exploiting the situation, kidnapping young men to either sell to the military to meet recruitment quotas or to hold for ransom from desperate families.
