Over the span of more than 2 years following the military coup in Mon State, there has been a noticeable surge in drug usage and sales, but minimal measures have been taken to address this concerning issue as reported by anti-drug activist and local residents speaking to Than Lwin Times.
The townships of Mon State, including Mudon, Kyaikmaraw, Thanbyuzayat, and Ye, have experienced a significant increase in drug use and sales. Additionally, other townships such as Paung, Chaungzon, Mawlamyine, Bilin, Thaton, and Kyaikto have also seen a rise in drug activity.
According to anti-drug activists, there has been a rise in the consumption of Kratom, in addition to WY pills, commonly referred to as horse drugs. The use of drugs has become so prevalent that it is openly used in certain townships.
"They use both substances, but Kratom is their preferred choice. WY is used less frequently. The main problem is the absence of authorities to control and apprehend them. As the number of drug dealers increases, so does the number of users. With many schools closed, there is a higher likelihood of young people turning to drugs. The increased availability of sellers has led to a rise in drug addiction among the youth," explained the anti-drug activist.
Based on data gathered by Than Lwin Times, approximately 70 percent of the youth in Mon State are reported to use Kratom, while the remaining 30 percent are using WY pills, commonly referred to as horse drugs.
Furthermore, it has been observed that bars and clubs openly engage in the use and sale of hard drugs such as ecstasy and ketamine.
Local residents report that drug use and sale among young people in rural areas is extensive and on the rise. They also express concerns that the Military Council has not taken effective measures to address drug dealers and users.
"In our area, the habit of consuming Kratom has spread widely, from children to individuals in their 60s," shared a resident of Ye Township with Than Lwin Times. "Some adults have become addicted to Kratom, claiming that it has relieved their diabetes and back pain. We have observed the habit of Kratom consumption spreading from young people to adults. Furthermore, the use of WY has increased among middle-aged individuals, surpassing previous levels. The sale of these substances is also on the rise. Unfortunately, in Ye Township, the lack of security has resulted in a scarcity of arrests. Those who are arrested often find themselves in a situation where they have to pay money to secure their release."
Since the military coup, drug use in the state has surged due to limited job prospects and the widespread availability of drugs.
Kratom has become a customary offering in some Mon villages, where it is used to acknowledge and thank cooking groups and housework groups that contribute to donations for events, ranging from weddings to funerals.
From a health perspective, it is emphasized that consuming Kratom in excessive amounts over an extended period, particularly when mixed with cough medicine, coffee milk, or Coca-Cola, can lead to various adverse effects.
According to a social worker, "When individuals refrain from consuming Kratom, they experience severe body aches and pains. They suffer from runny noses and a general feeling of sickness. The pain becomes unbearable, compelling them to continue drinking Kratom excessively, eventually leading to addiction. Without Kratom, they are unable to perform daily tasks and are confined to their beds due to muscle pain. Based on our experience in providing social assistance, we have witnessed cases where individuals were admitted to hospitals with an unidentified illness and eventually passed away. Upon reviewing their medical records, nothing unusual was found. Although they complained of stomach pain, the examination showed no abnormalities. There have been numerous cases of people losing their lives in similar circumstances."
Using WY and Kratom, which fall under the narcotic category, can result in a secondary issue where individuals who cease their usage may encounter a lack of motivation to work, a decline in physical health, and a gradual withdrawal from the social environment.
Anti-drug activists emphasize that if the issue of drug trafficking and consumption in Mon State is not promptly addressed, the situation may deteriorate further.
However, the Military Council has alleged that nearly 100% of drug distribution in Myanmar is linked to certain ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) as well as the NUG and PDF.
In January 2023, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) released a survey report titled "Cultivation, Production and Consequences" regarding opium production in Myanmar. The report indicated that opium cultivation, which had been declining, has increased by 33 percent since the military coup.
