The military council arrested more than 50 civilians in Taunggyi of southern Shan State on May 24th.

“Now the fighting between the People’s Defense Force and the army has intensified in Kayah (Karenni) State. The military council is afraid the fighting may spread to Taunggyi. That is why the army is carrying out the arrests.” said a youth from Taunggyi. The junta troops have stepped up checks on and arrests on passersby in Taunggyi. A local from Taunggyi said: “The army arrested many people last night. I am concerned about my security.”

On May 24th, there was an explosion in front of the office of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) in Taunggyi. During the night, the military council arrested people.

After the military coup, junta troops conducted checks on mobile phones, Facebook and demanded money from people walking in the street in Taunggyi.