Military Checkpoint Causes Travel Disruptions in Nam Hteu Khu Village

Pajau Media

April 17, 2025

A military checkpoint set up by the State Administration Council (SAC) in Nam Hteu Khu Village, along the road connecting to Putao Town, has caused severe travel difficulties for locals and travelers, according to sources.

"The Light Infantry Battalion (LIB) 46 has been manning the checkpoint for some time now. Since they set it up, people from Nam Hteu Khu Village can no longer move freely in and out of town like before. The inspections are very strict," a local resident said.

The checkpoint was first established in late 2024 and has since imposed tight security checks on villagers and travelers, leading to growing frustrations.

"Before, villagers could leave early in the morning to sell goods at the market in town and return by evening. Now, they can’t. Even tourists coming to visit Clouds Ocean, locally called Ting Pinlay, have to pass through the checkpoint early in the morning, making travel inconvenient. Overnight trips have become the only option," the resident added.

Besides strict inspections, checkpoint guards occasionally force passing villagers to perform menial tasks, such as pushing stuck vehicles, washing motorcycles, or fetching water.

Nam Hteu Khu Village, home to over 400 households, is located about 16 miles west of Putao Town. The checkpoint has been set up near the popular tourist destination of Nam Hteu Khu Ting Pinlay, further disrupting movement in the area.

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