Mizzima
The families of young men selected for conscription in Ayeyarwaddy Region have not heard from them since they were summoned by the authorities for medical examinations.
The men, who had already been selected for conscription, were summoned to medical examinations on 28 March. After going to the alleged medical examinations most of their families heard no more from the conscripts, though a few have reportedly contacted their parents.
One distraught mother from Pathein Township said, “My son was called for a medical examination by the ward administrator on 28 March. As far as I know he was at the Southwestern Military Command, but have had no contact since 29 March. Similar stories of separation and concern are echoed throughout the region, we are crying and praying for our children’s safety.”
The junta issued a directive ordering those enlisted into the initial phase of military service from various townships to report to the Southwestern Military Command by 10:00 am on 28 March, according to a source familiar with junta activities.
They said: “The enlistees bought nothing with them because they were expecting to return home after a routine medical examination. However, fears arose as it became apparent that they were not released as expected. Perhaps they were detained.”
Worried family members seeking information from ward administrators received only vague responses about when the conscripts would be released, which just added to their concerns.
Reports suggest that between 700 and 1,000 conscripts, all of whom were men, were summoned for medical examinations, according to another source with links to the junta.
They also said that the conscripts may be receiving military training at the No. (6) Military Basic Training Corps in Shwe Myin Tin Village, Pathein Township, or they may have been transferred to other military basic training corps in the Ayeyarwaddy Region.
