Nay Pyi Taw, May 16, 2025 — Myanmar authorities have arrested 26 individuals, including five members of the Arakan Army (AA) insurgent group’s logistics team, in connection with a large-scale drug trafficking operation. The suspects were found in possession of a massive consignment of narcotics valued at more than 282.325 billion Kyats, equivalent to approximately USD 70.58 million, based on prevailing market exchange rates.

According to a press release issued by the State Administration Council (SAC), law enforcement officials seized a total of 4,093 kilograms of ICE (methamphetamine) and 3,000 kilograms of ketamine. The narcotics were destined for Malaysia and were intercepted in two separate maritime operations conducted on April 26 and 27. One group of suspects was arrested aboard a vessel named “Ahman Thit”, located approximately 60 nautical miles southwest of Pyapon in the Ayeyarwady Region. The second operation resulted in the arrest of another group on board a cargo ship about 180 nautical miles west of Kawthaung in the Tanintharyi Region.

Among the individuals apprehended were logistics officers and members of the AA insurgent group. The SAC identified five key figures: Nay Paing Lin (also known as Aung Naing Kywel, age 34), who served as a logistics officer; Nay Myint Tun (also known as Pyae Sone or Lu Gyi, age 41), the deputy logistics officer; Paing Paing Htwe (also known as Aung Naing Htwe, Aung Naing Thu, or Paing Paing, age 26); Naw Naw, age 24; and Ko Ko Oo, age 58. All five were identified as part of the AA's logistics network.

During interrogations, the suspects reportedly admitted that the narcotics had been procured from two individuals: Ko Saing and Ko Tayoke (also known as Saing Aung Lu), both of whom are from Wan Hine Village in Kyethi Township, Loilem District, Southern Shan State. The shipment was said to have been purchased with the intent of transporting the drugs to Malaysia for distribution.

The SAC statement stated that the Arakan Army is involved in drug trafficking operations to fund the purchase of arms and ammunition used in insurgent attacks in Rakhine State. The group is accused of committing violent acts, including the intimidation and killing of civilians, as part of its operations.

Authorities noted that due to heightened security along traditional land-based trafficking routes, armed groups and narcotics syndicates are increasingly turning to maritime transport. The SAC reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing surveillance and interdiction operations along sea routes to disrupt such activities.

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