In Lashio Township of Shan State, there have been instances where disorderly bikers and motorists are stopped and subjected to monetary extortion under the pretext of holding the Thingyan Water. Festival.
Since early March, the scrutiny on drivers and bikers in Lashio has intensified, hence those without a valid driver's license riding bikes are being extorted for as much as 30000 kyats, while motorists are being forced to pay up to 100000 kyats, a local said.
“They used to conduct checks to ensure that motorcyclists were wearing helmets, displaying a valid license plate on their motorcycle, and possessing a valid license. Violations of these regulations may result in a fine of up to 30000 kyats. For drivers of cars, they primarily inspect the vehicle's wheel tax documents and the driver's license. Any failure to comply may result in a demand for a payment of 50000 to 100000 kyats. There have been reports that they are extorting money from motorists to raise funds for a grand Thingyan festive event”, the Lashio local told Shan Herald.
As a result of exorbitant fines, regular travelers in the town are encountering a multitude of challenges. Bikers who cannot afford to pay the fine face the confiscation of their motorcycles and are often directed to retrieve them the following day at an additional cost.
"Those who come to Lashio from rural areas are particularly vulnerable to such extortion as they are often unaware of its existence. When they encounter these checkpoints in the town, they may fall victim to such unacceptable practices. To avoid these checks, we locals are traveling through alleys instead of main roads. If caught, one would have to pay a significant amount of money, which is difficult to do during this current economic crisis. In some cases, they may seize the bike, and the victim would have to retrieve it the following day”, he added.
Locals report that currently there are strict inspections being conducted in the vicinity of Lashio University, the surrounding area of Lashio Park, and near Mansu Bus Station.
