01 Oct 2024 | 04:37 AM UTC
Myanmar: Authorities bolster security in Mandalay as of Oct. 1 following rocket strikes on military headquarters in Mandalay Palace
Enhanced security measures ongoing in Mandalay city, Myanmar as of Oct. 1 following rocket attacks on Mandalay Palace. Disruptions likely.
Authorities are implementing increased security measures in Mandalay city following rocket strikes and explosions at the military headquarters in Mandalay Palace early Sept. 29. The Brave Warriors for Myanmar (BWM) group has claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that they fired six missiles at the compound. Unconfirmed reports suggest that some troops were injured, though details are unclear.
Security forces have been conducting patrols around the Mandalay Palace Moat and Aungmyethazan Township. Authorities could conduct random stop checks and vehicle inspections and tighten security at border checkpoints into Mandalay. These measures will likely continue over the coming weeks and may prompt transport and business disruptions. Further attacks are possible. Related demonstrations - including pro-democracy rallies and pro-junta gatherings - may occur at markets, public squares, monuments, and religious places in the coming days.
Exercise heightened caution if operating in Mandalay. Shelter in a secure building if violence breaks out nearby. Stay indoors and away from windows and exterior walls if authorities warn of incoming strikes; move to the ground floor or basement if possible. Avoid protest sites and concentrations of security personnel and military facilities. Do not navigate roadblocks; wait for authorities to clear them. Confirm business appointments, transport reservations, and ground shipping schedules. Carry proper identification documents and remain cooperative if stopped by officials for security checks. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
The latest incident is the second attack on the Mandalay Palace compound in less than a month. Previous rocket strikes Sept. 3 injured one civilian. Explosions continue to occur in major cities of Myanmar amid ongoing civil unrest following the 2021 military coup. Most incidents target security forces, government offices, or individuals and organizations supporting the military. Pro-regime and pro-democracy demonstrations also continue with sporadic violence. The National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) has stated that it would not conduct offensives on Mandalay and Taunggyi despite significant territorial claims made by MNDAA and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) in northern Shan State and northern Mandalay Region. However, Mandalay will remain at risk of low-level attacks by urban guerillas sabotaging military and government facilities.
