Armed groups and the business of sexual slavery in Kayin State
520
Hsu/Thant Zin (NP News) - Jan 28
According to a source speaking to The Statesman Journal, a 'virgin market' allegedly linked to senior leaders of armed groups in Kayin State has emerged, with prices exceeding 10 million kyats depending on the package.
The market has reportedly emerged in Payathonzu (Three Pagoda Pass), a town believed to be under the control of Colonel A-1 of the DKBA.
"The girls are in Payathonzu, a town with approximately four brothels. In the past, the 'virgin' label wasn't really popular. It only gained traction after Chinese customers started arriving and people began connecting via Telegram. The market is tiered by class. For the lowest tier, ordinary Myanmar customers might pay around 85,000 kyats via KBZ Pay. The girls involved are those in Payathonzu—rates vary according to their class. It's a virgin market, with packages costing 10 to 15 million kyats for seven days. It's sexual slavery," the source said.
According to the source, the clientele for this market includes Kayin State-based armed group leaders as well as wealthy individuals seeking sexual services.
"It even includes top leaders of armed groups—to put it plainly, even figures from senior NUG, the so-called Nation Unity Government. There are even people providing armed security with guns," the source said.
"Reports indicate that prostitution services in Payathonzu are categorized into distinct price tiers, starting at 2,500 baht per night and reaching up to 60,000 baht for monthly stays."
"There are options ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 baht—that's one group. Then there's another group costing 60,000 baht, used only by tycoons—mostly people from armed organizations. You can rent the girls on a monthly basis for 60,000 to 100,000 baht. It's like a 'date girl' arrangement: if you like someone from Yangon, they can bring her over. You can call whoever you want," the source said.
There are also reports that foreign nationals are among those working in this market; however, The Statesman has not been able to independently verify these claims.
Payathonzu is currently believed to be under DKBA control, with reports of widespread illicit activities, including online financial scams, casino gambling, drug trafficking, and frequent robberies.