By Kantarawaddy Times
In Loikaw town, Karenni State, junta-backed People’s Militia forces and traffic police have been jointly conducting operations to seize unlicensed vehicles, according to local residents.
Starting from June 1, authorities have been inspecting and impounding vehicles without proper licenses. A resident reported that several cars and motorbikes have already been confiscated, with some owners being forced to pay money to retrieve their vehicles—while others said they were unable to get them back at all.
“Although they say the focus is on cars, they’re also seizing motorbikes. If they really went after every unlicensed vehicle, almost every car in town would be affected,” said a Loikaw resident.
Locals noted that members of the fire brigade have also been seen participating in these vehicle checks alongside the People’s Militia and traffic police.
“There are no military troops involved—only the People’s Militia. Most of the arrests happen in the evenings,” another resident explained.
Checkpoints are reportedly concentrated near key locations such as Thiri Mingalar (Taung Sai Market), in front of the pagoda, Daw Noe Ku Ward, and the main city traffic light.
Rumors are also circulating that authorities may begin house-to-house inspections for unlicensed vehicles, causing fear among local residents.
Similar crackdowns have also been reported in other southern Shan State townships in recent days, where junta inspection teams are reportedly seizing unlicensed cars and motorbikes.
