Travelers Stranded as Military Blocks Exit at Tanghpre Gate

Pajau Media

October 2, 2025

In the northern part of Myitkyina, at Tanghpre Gate, military commission troops have blocked people from exiting, leaving travelers and patients who came for medical treatment without a way to return home, according to reports.

At the checkpoint, only entry into Myitkyina is permitted, while those aged between 18 and 40 are being denied exit passes, a local resident who had sought medical care in Myitkyina told Pajau Media.

“If we come to Myitkyina for treatment, we can’t go back. Staying here is impossible because we have no money. At least at home we have food and our own place. Here there’s no one to borrow from and Myitkyina-Putao flights are too expensive to afford. Even if the military fears KIA recruitment, they should at least let patients and those in emergencies pass,” he explained.

The restrictions are also affecting people who came to Myitkyina for medical purposes, including those bringing children for vaccinations. Many are facing serious difficulties because they cannot leave, especially during a time of high living costs and economic hardship. Locals emphasized that such restrictions should not apply to patients and emergency cases.

The measure is believed to be linked to KIA and PDF recruitment activities targeting young people along the Myitkyina-Putao road, which has prompted the military to tighten controls. As a result, not only travelers but also medical patients and families have been left stranded.

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