YANGON: A total of 174 pickpockets were arrested on YBS bus lines and at bus stops in Yangon within five months, according to the Yangon Region Police Force on May 23.
The police said that daily surveillance and arrest operations have been carried out on YBS buses and at bus stops. From January 1 to May 22, 2026, authorities arrested 153 male and 21 female suspects involved in pickpocketing cases, bringing the total number of arrests to 174.
Police also seized 226 mobile phones and 8,083,600 kyats (US$3,849) in cash from the suspects. A total of 205 cases were opened, and legal action was taken against those involved.
In addition, the Yangon Region Police Force said that, under a 100-day crime reduction campaign across the region, authorities have been conducting joint patrols, neighbourhood security checks, stakeouts, guest registration inspections, crime awareness talks and distribution of educational pamphlets in cooperation with local administrative teams.
Traffic police and local authorities have also been carrying out public awareness campaigns on traffic rules and taking action against vehicles violating traffic regulations on a daily basis, the police added. - Eleven Media/ANN
