Opium Markets Flourish Under Junta

Opium Markets Flourish Under Junta

Northern Shan State's markets are now full of people selling and buying opium harvested recently, according to local people who told S.H.A.N.. 

Markets in Monghawm, Nawngkham, Parngphuak, Parngya in Kutkhai Township, from Mongzi to Mongkoe are filled with opium buyers and sellers who are doing business openly without fear of persecution, they said. 

The Mongkoe Defense Army, led by Mongsala and Kachin Democratic Army, led by Mahtunaw, both of whith enjoy ceasefire pacts with Rangoon, are reported to be producing heroin. 

For every viss (1.6 kg) that is sold, a K. 5,000 tax is imposed by the local military authorities. The price of opium there ranges from K. 180,000 - 200,000 per viss. It was lower than the last season, when, because of unfavorable weather, the output was low and the price had gone up to K. 230,000 per viss. 

"As a result, even junior officers like Sgt.-Maj. Maung Mey in Nawngkham and Sgt.-Maj. Kyaw Nyein in Monghawm, both from IB 123, are living like princes," said the source.