A truck transporting illegal drugs worth an estimated 16.8 billion kyats, concealed under sacks of corn, was seized in Loilen Township, southern Shan State, according to reports.

Myanmar authorities, which continue to treat drug eradication as a national duty, have been intensifying efforts to prevent trafficking and distribution. As part of these operations, a joint security and anti-narcotics task force intercepted a 12-wheeled vehicle on the evening of April 20 at the Nay Min Yaung toll gate in Loilen.

The vehicle, traveling from Loilen toward Taunggyi, was driven by Phyo Wai Tun, 23, with Khant Kyaw Htet, 21, accompanying him. Upon inspection, officials discovered that the truck was carrying drugs hidden beneath yellow corn sacks.

Authorities found a total of 48 yellow sacks containing approximately 1,200 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (ICE), labeled with Chinese markings and the brand name “GUAN YIN WAN.” The seized drugs are estimated to have a street value of 16.8 billion kyats.

According to the driver, they had been working as drivers from Chaung U to Mongla since February 2025, along with their driver, Khin Kyaw Htet. On April 18, when they were returning from Mongla to Chaung U, they contacted Pyae Phyo Kyaw Corn Market in Village No. (9) of Nam San Township to obtain goods. On April 20, the market owners, Win Zaw Nyunt and Khin Win Swe, delivered 48 bags of chicken and 250 bags of corn.

Therefore, the joint team arrested and searched the owners of Pyae Phyo Kyaw and Khin Win Swe at their homes. According to the investigation to them, on April 14, five men arrived at their market in an AD Van and purchased 250 bags of corn. On April 19, an individual called Lin Lin phoned and said that he would be carrying 48 bags of chicken along with the corn bags, and on April 20, the seized vehicle arrived and loaded the goods.

The vehicles have been handed over to the relevant departments and will continue to be processed in accordance with the procedures.

The government is working with the public to combat and prevent drugs that damage the reputation of the country and destroy the entire human race. It is also working with international organizations. If the public receives information about drugs, it is necessary to report them to the authorities in a timely manner, and effective and severe action will be taken against any organization that is involved in the seized drug cases.