Competitive Conscription of Drug Users by Junta and Armed Group Sparks Panic in Myanmar's Southern Shan State

Tensions are escalating in southern Shan State’s Langkho (Linkhay) District as Myanmar military forces and the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS) conduct rival drives to detain and forcibly conscript local drug users, according to area residents. Since July, junta troops and RCSS fighters have launched targeted sweeps across downtown Langkho and surrounding villages, executing spot checks, roadside detentions, and targeted home raids. Detainees are routinely subjected to drug tests before being pressed into service.