Record drug crackdown in Arakan State nets 77 suspects, including Arakan Army members

By Admin 24 Jul 2026

DMG Newsroom

24 July 2026, Kyauktaw

A record 77 suspected drug dealers and users have been arrested in Kyauktaw Township, Arakan State, during a month-and-a-half-long crackdown, with investigations continuing to identify additional suspects linked to the cases.

Between June 2 and July 17, the Department of Law Enforcement and Public Security (DLEPS) under the Arakan People's Revolutionary Government arrested 77 people on allegations of drug trafficking and drug use, comprising 56 men and 21 women.

Among those arrested on drug trafficking charges were eight men, including one member of the Arakan Army, and 17 women. Those detained for drug use included six Arakan Army members, 13 students, and 34 other male and female suspects.

The 13 students arrested for drug use include six students from Kyauktaw whose arrests were previously reported by DMG on July 21. The students, who are in Grades 11 and 12, have since been transferred to a youth rehabilitation centre.

During the operation, DLEPS seized about 8,000 WY-brand stimulant tablets and K1,976,000 in cash.

DLEPS said investigations are continuing to identify additional suspects connected to the cases and that those in custody will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

In March 2026, DLEPS announced that anyone found transporting, selling, or distributing illicit drugs in Arakan State could face penalties ranging from a minimum of 10 years' imprisonment to the death penalty under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law.

Previous anti-drug operations in Arakan State include the arrest of two suspected drug traffickers in Minbya Township in August 2025, during which authorities seized narcotics valued at more than K60 million.

In the same month, 11 people, including seven DLEPS officers accused of involvement in drug distribution, were arrested in Ponnagyun Township.