The LIB 269 military camp of the Burmese Army based in Rihkhawdar in Falam township Chin state closed a road used for smuggling on July 4 because of a shortage of military personnel in the camp, which was coming in the way of extorting money from traders.

There are two roads used for smuggling in Chin state by avoiding the Indo-Myanmar border road 2. Now one of the roads has been closed because of a shortage of soldiers to extort money from traders. The other road is still open.

The LIB 269 military camp of the Burmese Army based in Rihkhawdar

“Phaiza (Burma) via Tlangsam (India) road was closed by the Burmese military but Phaiza via Zote (India) road is still open. The army said that if anyone uses the closed road action will be taken in accordance with the law,” said a trader.

Earlier, the army made a temporary camp on the road to Bukphir and Thinglei village manned by eight military personnel but it has been withdrawn because of shortage of troops.

Traders carry domestic animals, cigarettes and garlic from Burma to India. On the other hand Zarda, Khaini and other goods are transported to Burma from India along these two roads, a trader told Khonumthung News.

“Now soldiers are demanding more money after closing one road. They demanded Kyat 1000 to 2000 per horse as tax before, but now they take Kyat 3000 to 5000. The demands vary according to items,” said a trader on the Indo-Myanmar border.

The LIB 269 military personnel demanded Kyat 1.5 lakhs for 16 horses from Pu Pathang of Tedim town on July 19, said an eyewitness.

In the LIB 269 military camp, there were 70 soldiers earlier, but now only half of them are left.