Youths selected for military service in Gwa flee

 In Gwa township, the southernmost area of Rakhine State, a lottery selection process for military service is going on in various wards and villages, which resulted  in fleeing of some selected Rakhine youths.

"Some individuals were not selected for military service. Those familiar with the administration also did not get the opportunity. Consequently, some young people from ward 3 of Kyeintali township had an argument with the administrator that led 13 youths to flee from the location," said a young resident of Gwa.

A resident of Kyeintali informed that on 17 March a lottery selection for military service was conducted in the urban wards of Gwa township, specifically in ward 1, ward 2 and ward 3.

"Among those selected, two individuals were chosen from each ward. Once selected, there is no choice for the participants. The first person chosen must undergo military training in the first batch, followed by the others in subsequent weeks," he added.

Because of the military junta's pressure on the people, there remains  no option available for them. Joining the Arakan Army (AA) also becomes difficult.

"Most people have no choice but to participate in the military service selection process. The situation is very difficult in the south and there is no way to join the AA," he stated.

The  junta is blatantly conducting the militia recruitment in Taungup, Thandwe, Gwa, and Munaung localities that raised concerns among the young and middle-aged residents.

The  residents have also reported that the military junta was collecting Kyats 5,000 per household to cover the food and stipends for the individuals attending the military training.