Doctor abducted and assaulted in Muse, a hotspot for daily kidnapping and blackmail

Doctor abducted and assaulted in Muse, a hotspot for daily kidnapping and blackmail
Published 11 April 2024

A doctor from a clinic in Muse's Christian quarter, Northern Shan State, was abducted and assaulted on April 9 at 5 pm while attending to patients, as reported by locals.

Witnesses stated that while administering an injection, four armed men arrived, beat the doctor, and took him away. The incident has left Dr. Moe Kyaw Naing, Chairman of the MMA Muse Township Doctor's Association, missing, prompting concern among his family and colleagues.

"While the doctor was administering an injection to a patient inside the clinic, four tall men with guns got out of the car and the three men beat and arrested the doctor. The men also threatened the person in the room with a gun to keep quiet," said a man who went there to seek medical treatment told Eleven Media.

"It was around 5 o'clock in the evening, and I still haven't been able to contact him. I also want to know what had happened," said Dr. Moe Kyaw Naing's wife, adding that the family and relatives are worried because it is not yet known which organization carried out the kidnapping and where he was taken.

Muse has witnessed a surge in crime, including threats, extortion, and violence targeting residents, businesses, and professionals. The situation has led to insecurity and forced some to relocate, exacerbating challenges faced by the community amidst ongoing conflict and criminal activities. Shooting and arrests were occurred those who do not pay extortion money.

Residents are troubled by armed groups impersonating guerrilla organizations such as MRTTD and MSPDF, demanding money, and resorting to violence, further deteriorating Muse's security and stability.