Township Police Chief Dies After Collapsing During Meeting

Ayeyarwaddy Times September 17 In Tapoung Township, Ayeyarwaddy Region, the township police chief, Police Colonel Min Than Soe, suddenly collapsed and died from a pre-existing condition of coronary artery stenosis around 10 AM on September 15, while a meeting was being held at the township police station, it has been learned. Under the caretaker government, the Tapoung Township Police Chief collapsed while reprimanding his subordinates during an in-office meeting, and died while preparations were being made for medical treatment. "It is understood that he collapsed and died during an argument and shouting match concerning priority tasks, internal transfers, and supply issues, including the matter of line fees (bribes)," a security source told the Ayeyarwaddy Times. It is known that the body of the deceased township chief will be cremated today. Deaths among senior police officers serving in Tapoung Township have been occurring consecutively. On January 28, 2025, the Tapoung Township Police Chief, Deputy Police Colonel Win Naing Oo, was shot and killed by a sniper while delivering rations to Kyar Khaw village. A security source commented that Tapoung Township is an area in Ayeyarwaddy Region where battles are continuously occurring between revolutionary forces and PDF forces, including the Arakan Army (AA), and that police personnel and officers are experiencing low morale and pressure due to the military's general pressure and administrative shortcomings. It is reported that police soldiers are now accompanying personnel to frontline bases, taking primary responsibility for logistical matters, and are also engaged in pursuing and arresting deserters.