Myanmar Refugees in Manipur Forced to Pay 'Security Fees' to Naga Armed Group Linked to Junta: Refugees Face Extortion, Fear, and Forced Return
In Manipur's Kamjong district, Myanmar refugees fleeing violence in the Sagaing Region are being illegally extorted by a Naga armed group allegedly linked to the NSCN-IM faction and Myanmar’s military junta. Refugees report being forced to pay ₹2,500 per household, later reduced to ₹1,500 in some cases — an unaffordable demand for many displaced families with no income. The group allegedly collects these “security fees” under the guise of providing protection. Unable to pay, some refugees have been forced to return to conflict-ridden Myanmar, risking their lives. The extortion is reportedly part of a larger pattern involving cross-border cooperation between insurgents and junta forces. While Mizoram has initiated refugee registration and aid efforts, the Manipur government has remained silent, and refugees continue to live in fear, without adequate support or protection.
NETB24
Refugees from Myanmar, taking shelter in the remote villages of Kamjong district in Manipur, have reported being forced to pay “security fees” to a local Naga armed group that is allegedly collaborating with Myanmar’s military junta.
According to multiple sources and testimonies shared with independent outlet Shwe Phi Myay, the armed group — reportedly linked to the NSCN-IM faction — has been demanding 2,500 Indian Rupees per household from families hosting refugees. In some instances, after repeated pleas, the amount was reportedly reduced to 1,500 Rupees, but even this lowered demand remains unaffordable for most.
“Many refugees have no jobs or income,” said one displaced person on condition of anonymity. “The pressure is unbearable, and some are left with no option but to leave.”
The group allegedly visited several villages in Kamjong on June 29, demanding payments from households offering shelter to displaced people fleeing violence in Tamu township, Sagaing Region of Myanmar. Refugees refrained from naming the villages, citing concerns for their safety.
Sources claim the Naga group in question has been supporting junta operations near the border, and is actively involved in joint activities with Myanmar’s military. The NSCN-IM, a long-standing separatist faction in India’s Northeast, has previously been accused of maintaining operational links across the Myanmar border.
The extortion demands have had devastating consequences. Refugees unable to meet the payments have reportedly been forced to return to Myanmar, despite the ongoing conflict and risks to their lives. “Some families have already crossed back into Myanmar,” said one refugee. “They simply could not afford to stay here.”
Over the past year, thousands of civilians have fled into Manipur as fighting escalated between the Myanmar junta and resistance forces. While Manipur has served as a temporary refuge, conditions remain precarious, with limited access to food, employment, and humanitarian support.
The reported extortion underscores the increasing vulnerability of displaced populations and the complexity of border dynamics, where armed groups operate across national boundaries and exploit civilian suffering for gain.
Human rights observers have called on authorities to intervene and provide protection to refugees, emphasizing that India has a responsibility under international law to safeguard those fleeing war and persecution.
By Changkhonbi
