Myanmar authorities seize 2 million stimulant tablets, 134 kg of heroin in massive drug bust
Acting on tip-off, the operation unfolded late on May 20 in Lewe Township. Led by a joint team from the Drug Enforcement Division, the authorities stopped a Fuso 12-wheel truck late on May 20 as it travelled from Aungnangcho to Pyinmana, reports Global Light of Myanmar.
The truck, driven by Zin Myo Htet Aung (aka Kala Lay) and accompanied by Min Khant Kyaw and Myat Soe Oo (aka Super), was found to be carrying 1,999,400 methamphetamine pills and 134.2 kilograms of heroin.
Simultaneously, two Chevrolets believed to be escort vehicles were also intercepted. Drivers Thurein Ko Ko, along with Kyaw Myo Hlaing (aka Kyaw Gyi) and Nay Oo Shein, were taken into custody.
The investigation led to further arrests the next morning. At a hotel in Pyinmana Township, police apprehended Paw Lu (aka Paw Lu Chan), Soe Lwin, and Thein San Htun (aka Kala Lay), believed to be key figures in a trafficking network moving drugs from Shan State to Mandalay.
Legal proceedings have begun for those arrested, with the police stating that efforts are underway to identify and detain additional individuals involved in the massive trafficking operation.
This latest seizure follows a similar bust in Shan State just days earlier, where authorities confiscated 500,000 stimulant tablets worth over K200 million (approximately USD $93,000).
Myanmar – a central hub in the 'Golden Triangle' -- has long been a major conduit for drug smuggling operations across South East Asia. The network, which converges on the country's borders with Laos, and Thailand, is infamous for being one of the most prolific global epicentres for the manufacture and distribution of heroin, and more recently, methamphetamine.
Despite repeated crackdowns, organised trafficking networks continue to thrive with billions in illicit profits, and a deeply entrenched infrastructure.
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