Troops of the Light Infantry Battalion (266) stationed in Lunglei village, Thangtlang Township in Chin state, patrolling the border use villagers not only as guides but also force them to carry army rucksacks full of and ammunition and food.  

"Some of them (villagers) are not only being used as guides but are also being forced to carry rucksacks, bed sheets and bullets for the army," a villager said.

Moreover, the soldiers forcibly take rice, chicken and vegetable from villagers residing along their patrol route.   

"They (soldiers) ask for food and livestock from villagers in remote areas even as people struggle to survive," a villager in Chin state said.

Given the uncertain climatic conditions in the area, the main crops such as paddy, maize and vegetables in farms in Chin state have registered a lower yield compared to last year.   

Fourteen soldiers lead by Major Myo Zaw Tant on patrol duty forced 11 villagers from Sabawngte village, Matupi Township in Chin state to carry army backpacks, rations and bullets on October 8.

Since 1988, the Burmese military regime has been on an expansion mode increasing its military battalions in Chin state. As a consequence human rights abuses and forced labour have become the order of the day in these areas. – Khonumthung.