On December 29, the junta navy apprehended a cargo vessel near Hainggyi Island transporting over 200 locals journeying from Manaung Town in Arakan State to Yangon.
A resident of Manaung informed Narinjara News, “It occurred approximately on December 29. The travelers were heading from Manaung to Yangon. Prior to arriving at Hainggyi Island, a navy patrol vessel detected them and took them into custody. The vessel was subsequently brought to naval ships located close to the Ngawun River. The passengers haven't been freed yet."
The freighter was transporting approximately 200 residents, comprising women and children.
Manaung Town is one of just three towns in Arakan State that has not yet experienced any conflict between the Arakan Army (AA) and military forces. It also depends solely on waterways for transport.
“At the moment, traveling from Manaung to Taungup is impossible as the Taungup-Padaung road is blocked due to conflict. Consequently, residents of Manaung must journey straight to Yangon via ship or cargo vessel. The officials of the junta have permitted this, so individuals take this path. Yet, this time, a freight vessel with 200 inhabitants was held,” the local mentioned.
Another resident, who is connected to one of the detainees, mentioned that the release seems to be postponed because of current questioning by the junta.
"I heard the junta is interrogating them regarding their trip to Yangon despite no conflict occurring in Manaung." They are also verifying their national registration cards (NRC). I think it pertains to the 11/ NRC,” stated the local.
In the past, residents of Manaung were permitted to travel to Yangon with travel permits issued by the junta. Nonetheless, this time, they were detained even though they possessed the necessary paperwork.
The local also pointed out that numerous individuals traveling to Yangon consist of those looking for employment because of the local economic crisis, individuals requiring medical care, and students, including youngsters.
Manaung Township remains under military control, and locals are experiencing increasing prices of goods. The junta’s rigid prohibition on offshore fishing has driven numerous local fishermen to leave, as their means of living have been greatly affected.
Arakanese individuals with 11/NRC cards are encountering growing challenges because of the junta's travel restrictions, compelling them to seek different routes and take unconventional paths to arrive at their destinations.
