Mon State lawmaker raises concerns over excessive checkpoints and illegal extortion by security personnel

Mawlamyine- A Mon State parliamentarian has raised concerns over the large number of security checkpoints across the state, alleging that some are operating improperly and demanding excessive payments from vehicles transporting local agricultural products.

During the fourth day of the second regular session of the Third Mon State Parliament held in Mawlamyine on June 16, Kyaikmaraw Township Constituency No. 2 representative U Than Zaw questioned whether authorities have plans to effectively investigate and take action under anti-corruption laws against illegal checkpoints, unauthorized arrest groups, and unlawful extortion.

According to U Than Zaw, while security checkpoints are necessary for maintaining law and order and ensuring regional stability, some checkpoints have exceeded their intended purpose and are engaging in improper practices. He alleged that certain security personnel demand money from travelers under various pretexts unrelated to security and require transporters of local products to present recommendation letters and documents, delaying vehicles for extended periods or demanding payments when such documents cannot be produced.

He said these practices disrupt the flow of goods, causing delays in deliveries to wholesale markets and resulting in losses for traders and farmers.

“Checkpoints are everywhere in Mon State, and the amount of money being paid is excessive. Transportation costs are being added to the prices of goods, contributing to rising commodity prices,” U Than Zaw told the parliament.

He also claimed that unidentified groups are setting up roadblocks and extorting money from the public.

Highlighting the situation in Ye Township, where security conditions remain unstable, U Than Zaw said local residents rely heavily on seasonal products such as durians, mangosteens and betel nuts. Farmers transporting these products to Yangon markets reportedly face numerous checkpoints where officials demand recommendation letters or payments and subject vehicles to lengthy delays.

As a result, perishable produce often arrives late or spoils before reaching markets, causing financial hardship for farmers and transport operators while also driving up prices for consumers in other regions, he said.

Responding to the question, Mon State Minister for Planning and Finance Nai Layi Tama said that there are 40 security posts across Mon State, including five regular joint inspection checkpoints staffed by personnel from the military, police, anti-narcotics units, anti-human trafficking police, public security and counterterrorism units, immigration authorities, customs officials and consumer affairs departments.

According to U Than Zaw, goods entering from border areas through the eastern side of the Ataran River must pass through 35 checkpoints in Kyaikmaraw Township established for security reasons. He further stated that nearly 100 illegal checkpoints are operating between Kyaikmaraw Township and Karen State’s Kyarinseikgyi Township, where money is allegedly being demanded from legally imported goods traveling from Myawaddy and Phaya Thonezu to Mawlamyine.