Myanmar: Fresh internet restrictions imposed nationwide as of June 7 amid ongoing clashes in several states across Myanmar /update 7

The junta has imposed fresh internet restrictions since May 31, notably banning the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPN) that will affect the country's 20 million social media users. While VPNs that were widely used in the country have been shut down, reports note that a clampdown on such proxy networks will not be completely possible in the short term; less popular VPNs are still available to users.

As of June 7, intense clashes remain concentrated in northern regions, with ongoing escalations in Rakhine State. Armed groups have expanded control in southern Maungdaw, a township in northern Rakhine bordering Bangladesh; Thandwe Airport (SNW) is closed through at least June 9 due to escalating clashes in Thandwe Township that reportedly resulted in the death of at least 10 people and the destruction of 200 homes.

The latest series of attacks comes after the military has lost approximately half of its 5,280 military bases, headquarters, and outposts since coordinated attacks by a coalition of anti-regime militant groups Oct. 27. The attacks primarily targeted military installations, military-controlled villages, security checkpoints, and major interstate highways. Attacks on structures and buildings with foreign ties, such as the Korean-backed BXT port, could also occur, though they are not specifically targeted. The military often responds to attacks by militant groups with artillery and airstrikes to target the groups' members or villages thought to shelter the fighters. The conflict has displaced over 3 million people, killed at least 5,161 civilians, and seen the detention of more than 20,500 individuals perceived to be anti-regime since Oct. 27. Related air strikes have also caused casualties, including in border regions of China.

Although the most intense fighting is affecting Kachin, Rakhine, and northern parts of Shan states, reports indicate related attacks by anti-junta groups across Bago, Chin, Kayah, Kayin, Mon and Shan states, and Mandalay, upper Sagaing, and Magway regions, including Mandalay City and near border checkpoints with China, Thailand, India, and Bangladesh. Other areas could also see an intensification of similar attacks, likely prompting additional security force deployments.

Anti-regime groups have staged bombings and assassinations of junta members or people considered to support the Tatmadaw; they have also sabotaged military and other government facilities in various urban areas, including Bago, Mandalay, and Yangon. Additionally, some activists have targeted individuals, organizations, and facilities owned by foreign nationals from China and other countries that allegedly support the Tatmadaw. While some explosions have caused collateral damage and civilian casualties, most attacks in urban centers are small-scale and inflict limited injuries and property damage. Authorities will likely impose heightened security measures at the incident sites, resulting in localized disruptions.

Increased security
Curfews are active in Sittwe, Rakhine State, and multiple northern areas of Shan State. Although martial law is no longer in place in the Kokang Region, curbs continue in at least 55 townships, including within Chin, Mon, and Karen states; such movement restrictions and closures of nonessential businesses are likely in other regions if clashes continue. Authorities have increased the presence of security personnel in Mandalay and Yangon. The tightest security is likely at border and entry points to major cities, especially Mandalay. Officials are reportedly conducting vehicle inspections and random stop checks in Mandalay. Businesses could reduce operating hours. Multiple countries continue to advise against all or nonessential travel to Myanmar or affected regions like the northern areas of Mandalay Region and Shan State.

Transport and shipping disruptions
Ground transport disruptions are occurring between:

• Townships within Shan and Mon States

• Lashio and Mandalay

• Yangon and Sittwe

• Chin State and Sagaing Region

• Chin State and Magwe Region

Additionally, all ground and river transport connecting Rakhine State is blocked, with multiple access routes to Lashio, such as bridges and highways, facing disruptions in the past week. Ground transport and shipping disruptions are affecting trade with China, Bangladesh, and India. Border gates to China in Mongla, eastern Shan State, reportedly remain open. Cargo flights between Yangon International Airport (YIA) and Kunming in China are available. Additional ground transport and shipping disruptions, including at the Thai border, are likely at short notice. Lashio Airport (LSH), Loikaw Airport (LIW), and Kalaymyo Airport (KMV) remain closed indefinitely; it is unclear when normal operations will resume. Mandalay (MDL) and Naypyidaw (NYT) international airports could also experience delays due to increased traffic from military aircraft. Anti-regime groups could target airports, potentially causing flight service suspensions.

Utility disruptions
Conflict-hit areas of northern Shan State, northern Rakhine State, and Sagaing Region have been most affected by utility and telecommunication outages; Sagaing Region and Rakhine State are reportedly facing severe fuel shortages. Security restrictions, infrastructure damage, and supply issues may cause similar disruptions at short notice in other impacted areas, including Yangon and Myanmar. Electricity disruptions can result in the temporary unavailability of essential services, such as ATMs, petrol stations, and internet and mobile data, as well as severe commercial and transport disruptions.

Civil unrest
Anti-junta demonstrations could increase in frequency in major urban centers, such as Yangon and Mandalay, following the announcement that the government will enforce mandatory military conscription. Internet service restrictions have repeatedly delayed the reporting of related rallies. Protest activity often spikes over holidays and other significant dates, such as scheduled court hearings involving cases against National League for Democracy (NLD) leaders. Rallies will likely continue nationwide, especially near government buildings, monuments, and public squares. Military and police personnel may use water cannons, tear gas, rubber bullets, and/or live ammunition to disperse protesters; reports indicate regime forces have also previously arrested non-violent demonstrators since February 2021. Activists often block roadways near demonstration sites to limit the mobility of military personnel.