Reports circulating on certain media outlets regarding the alleged forced recruitment of new soldiers by Tatmadaw in Ywathitkalay Village were false claims.
According to official sources, on the morning of 16 September, it was claimed by malicious news sources that over 20 men from Ywathitkalay, in Pyigyidagun Township, Mandalay Region, were forcefully arrested by Tatmadaw and local administrative officials. However, these reports were inaccurate and misleading.
In reality, the young people joining Tatmadaw are doing so of their own accord, driven by a strong sense of patriotism and the desire to defend the nation against violent perpetrations committed by groups like PDF terrorists which seek to destabilize the country. Many have also voluntarily signed up for the People’s Military Service Training programme, now in its fifth successful round.
Graduates of the programme are actively serving in various units, fulfilling their duties to safeguard the nation’s security. Officials stated that government media continues to provide clear information on military service law and that the public can reach out through available hotlines for further enquiries. These false claims from malicious news media are aimed at spreading fear and pushing young people towards misguided actions. — MNA/KZL