Pajau Media Channel
16th May, 2024
Drivers making this journey have reported being required to pay taxes, applicable to goods carriers and passenger vehicles, at checkpoints located in Mogaung Township.
According to drivers, "The toll rates vary depending on the vehicle type. Small cars are charged 2000 kyats for a round trip, trucks transporting rice bags are charged 4000 kyats, and larger vehicles may face a fee of 10000 kyats per round trip. This intensified taxation has been implemented over the past two months, a departure from previous practices."
The Shanni militia operates checkpoints at several locations including the Hopin 5 miles checkpoint, Hopin Kyar Gyi Kwin checkpoint, Nan Hkwin entrance checkpoint, Sarmaw Rafia Pagoda checkpoint, and Mogaung entrance checkpoint. Their tax collection activities target vehicles traversing the route between Mohnyin and Myitkyina.
Reports indicate that these taxation measures have been in effect for nearly two months, with rates varying based on vehicle categories such as small cars, passenger vehicles, trucks carrying rice bags, and those transporting other goods. Failure to comply with the demanded amounts results in interrogations and denial of passage.
Furthermore, incidents of violence have been reported. On March 3rd, two drivers transporting rice were shot and injured by Shanni Militia personnel at one of the checkpoints.
Since January, the Shanni Militia's presence and checkpoint operations have expanded within Mogaung Township and Indawgyi Region, reflecting an increased level of activity.
News - Kachin Pyi Thar
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