Since mid-July, displaced villagers returning to Nawnghkio Township in Shan State have reportedly faced arrests, interrogations, and movement restrictions, with homes, businesses, and religious sites sealed over alleged ties to armed groups.

Soldiers have accused some returnees—particularly those near Tawnghkam village—of supporting armed groups, including the TNLA, the Danu People’s Liberation Army (DPLA), and the People’s Defense Force (PDF). Several have been detained and questioned.

“Some people who returned to Tawnghkam village were arrested on accusations of supporting Ta’ang troops or Danu armed groups,” said a displaced man who recently returned. “Since it’s a village with many Danu residents, many have been affected. Now people are afraid to share any news. Those without Nawnghkio registration are denied entry, even if they have valid IDs from other towns.”

Junta-affiliated Telegram channels have published the names and addresses of alleged supporters, urging soldiers to arrest them. Locals confirmed that some of the named individuals have indeed been detained.

At least seven villages south of Nawnghkio town—mainly inhabited by the Danu ethnic group—have reported arrests and interrogations. In the town itself, junta forces have sealed off about 20 houses linked to people accused of aiding the TNLA and DPLA.

Local leaders and business owners have also been targeted. Seventeen gold shops and general stores have been shut down. Returnees to the town have reportedly been instructed not to leave for three months, even if they returned only to send their children to school.

Infrastructure damage continues to hinder travel. The Gote Twin Bridge between Nawnghkio and Kyaukme was destroyed by mines, forcing people to take a longer detour through Ye Village, where they now face fees of 50,000 to 100,000 kyats per person.

Religious sites have not been spared. The town’s only mosque, located in the market area, and a four-story market building owned by a Hindu temple have been sealed off by junta troops. Religious preachers and trustees have reportedly been arrested, although independent verification is still pending.

While travel has resumed on key routes—including the Nawnghkio–Pyin Oo Lwin–Mandalay and Nawnghkio–Kyaukgu–Inntaw–Lawksawk (Yat Sauk) roads—strict junta inspections remain in place. Meanwhile, locals say junta troops are advancing toward Mongkut (Mogok) via the Pyin Oo Lwin–Nawnghkio–Mogok highway, starting from the Ohnmatee junction in Nawnghkio Township.