Myanmar Military Announces Largest-Ever Drug Seizures Amidst Chaotic Landscape

The Myanmar military government reports record drug seizures following a January operation targeting illicit production in northern Shan state. Authorities confiscated extensive drug-making equipment and arrested several individuals. Myanmar's civil unrest has exacerbated drug trafficking, with the UN citing the nation as a major methamphetamine producer.

In a significant crackdown, Myanmar's military government has revealed what it claims to be the country's largest drug seizures to date. The raid spanned from January 8 to 12, specifically targeting drug production sites and online scams in the northern Shan state, as reported by state media on Thursday.

At a news conference, Home Affairs Minister Lt. Gen. Tun Tun Naung detailed the operation against three drug manufacturing facilities in Mongyai township, capturing vast amounts of heroin, methamphetamine, and crystal meth. The government released images showing makeshift labs filled with mixing vats and containers of drug-making materials.

The region has long been a hub for drug trafficking, aided by ongoing conflict and involvement from ethnic armed groups. State broadcaster MRTV later confirmed a fourth site raid, amid ongoing accusations of military and ethnic group complicity in the trade.

(With inputs from agencies.)