In Kale (Kalay) Town, Sagaing Region, locals reported that junta troops are abducting young men daily under the guise of a conscription drive.
On March 28, soldiers abducted 7 young men in front of the Mingyi Hotel on Bogyoke Main Road. Only the father of an infant and one other individual were released after each was forced to pay 4 million MMK for their freedom.
On March 31, the junta abducted 3 more young men at the same location.
In Kale Town, abductions of young people for conscription are becoming increasingly common, with only a few released after paying ransoms.
Individuals connected to junta authorities contact the families of those abducted, demanding 2 to 10 million MMK for their release.
Lately, the junta has been holding youths briefly in government offices in Kale Town, subjecting them to medical examinations at a military hospital before sending those who pass directly to military training depots.
Residents are urged to stay alert as junta troops continue daily conscription-related seizures at busy intersections and main roads in Kale Town.