State-run newspapers reported on November 22 that the news about people in Yangon City being taken away to work as porters was just misinformation.

"At this time, rumors are spreading. It’s not true that people are being taken and forced into working as porters. They don't need to worry," the newspapers quoted a government official as saying.

Yangon residents say that during the nights in Yangon, there are fewer pedestrians because of reports about forced porters.

"The news is coming out, and it's about where they were arrested. But when asked exactly, nobody knows. Because of the news, there are fewer passengers at night," said one Yangon resident.

Similarly, some Yangon residents say that some shops such as groceries, pharmacies and gyms are closing early at night.

"The gym where I work out used to be open until 8 pm, and now it closes at 7.30 pm for the staff to go home early. The players can stay until 7.30 pm," said a player at a gym in North Dagon Township.

 Meanwhile, pictures of missing young people and contact phone numbers and addresses are being posted on social networking sites.