The State Administration Council (SAC) has begun enforcing a new fee of 200,000 kyats (approx. $45.50 USD) per vehicle on unlicensed passenger vans operating along the Muse–Namkham–Lashio route in northern Shan State, according to local motorists and residents.

A Namhkam-based driver, speaking on condition of anonymity for safety reasons, confirmed to SHAN that military checkpoints along the Muse–Namkham road have been collecting the fee since mid-May 2025.

Unlicensed Hiace vans and Alphards traveling between Muse, Namhkam, and Lashio are now being charged 200,000 kyats per trip, the driver said.

Local sources indicate that most vehicles in northern Shan State, including those used by residents and even government departments, operate without proper licensing. This crackdown follows an earlier announcement by junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, who warned of action against unlicensed vehicles starting in mid-May.

A Muse resident, who also requested anonymity, noted that authorities are now doubling their revenue streams. Previously, they only charged based on transported goods. Now, they’re also fining drivers for lacking licenses.

Checkpoints have been established at key locations, including the Loi Su Taung and Panghkam bridges along the Muse–Namkham road. In Namhkam, a town under the control of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), military authorities reportedly began enforcing license checks on May 25, with fines ranging from 200,000 to 500,000 kyats per vehicle.

In a related development, sources allege that earlier this year, military council officials and local administrators collaborated to smuggle unlicensed Chinese vehicles into Myanmar via the Muse border gate.