16 March 2026 – Battalions of the People’s Defence Force (PDF) in Gangaw District have warned that they will take action against drug-related activities and illegal gambling in Gangaw township, Magway Region.
The statement was jointly issued by PDF Gangaw District Battalions No. 1, No.12, and No.14, which was issued on 15 March. The statement said that they will arrest individuals involved in the sale, use, or distribution of narcotic drugs, as well as those organising illegal gambling activities.
The statement noted that some villages in the northern Gangaw township have recently seen increasing drug use and open gambling activities. It said such practices undermine the sacrifices made by resistance fighters who are currently engaged in armed struggle against the military regime.
The battalions stated that many resistance fighters have sacrificed their lives and physical well-being in the fight against the military dictatorship, and allowing illegal activities such as drugs and gambling to spread would disrespect those sacrifices.
The PDF battalions, therefore, warned that any individuals found engaging in drug trafficking, drug use, or organising illegal gambling will be detained and investigated.
The statement also called on residents to cooperate by reporting drug-related activities and illegal gambling, urging communities to work together to eliminate these problems from the area. – Reporting by Ben
