Yangon outrage as police stall rape case

Public anger is mounting in Yangon after police in Insein Township were accused of refusing to act on the brutal rape of a minor.

The girl’s family filed a formal complaint on 22 May, detailing repeated assaults, chemical restraint and death threats in the 10‑Mile area of Sawbwa Gyi Gone. The accused, U Soe Moe, in his 40s, allegedly lured the victim, spiked her drinks with ecstasy and alcohol, and raped her multiple times. Witnesses say up to 17 people saw what happened.

Despite the gravity of the allegations, Insein Myoma Police Station reportedly declined to register a case, telling the family to settle the matter through local ward administrators.

Even after the suspect admitted in front of a community officer that he had threatened to kill the girl if she spoke out, no arrest was made.

Legal experts stress that under Section 375 of the Penal Code, consent obtained through threats or coercion constitutes rape. Lawyers say police have full authority to investigate and detain suspects without a warrant, yet the process has been deliberately stalled.

The family first approached local administrators on 3 May, but were met with indifference. One official allegedly told them to “control your own niece” rather than pursue charges.

With limited financial means, the family now struggles to escalate the case to higher authorities.

Residents say the episode reflects a wider pattern since the military coup, with police prioritising the pursuit of political dissidents while neglecting serious crimes such as robbery, theft and sexual assault.

The case has become a flashpoint in Yangon, fuelling criticism of a justice system seen as failing victims while shielding perpetrators. For the victim’s family, the fight for accountability continues against a backdrop of official inaction and public outrage.

-2026-05-28