Junta Allied Min Zay Thant Led Militia Says Gold Mining in Weh Law Can Only Operate After Paying Fees

Pajau Media

January 14, 2026

Joint forces of the military junta and the Warazup Min Zay Thant Militia are currently stationed and active in the Tanai gold mining areas. While military columns are operating in the area, gold miners are reportedly continuing their work only after paying money, according to sources.

“If miners want to work at the Weh Law gold mines, the Min Zay Thant Militia has told them they must first pay 6 million kyats before being allowed to operate,” said a worker from the Weh Law gold mining area.

Due to rising military tensions in the Tanai gold mining region, operations at some gold mines have been suspended. It is reported that the Min Zay Thant militia is allowing remaining operators to continue their work only after they pay the demanded fees.

Since around December 20, joint forces of the military junta and militias have moved into the area, and airstrikes were also carried out. As a result, most gold mine workers and operators have suspended their activities. On January 10, military forces advanced toward the Weh Law area and reinforced their troops, leading to clashes with KIA joint forces.

At present, operations at the Pyin Yin and Weh Law gold mines have been suspended, while some other gold mining sites are still operating on a limited scale using small machinery, according to workers.

News: Pilan U