02 Oct 2024 | 05:15 AM UTC
Myanmar: Police bolster security in Yangon as of Oct. 2 following bombings at administrative offices in Kyimyindaing Township
Enhanced security measures ongoing in Yangon city, Myanmar, as of Oct. 2 following explosions at administrative offices. Disruptions likely.
Authorities are implementing increased security measures in Yangon city as of Oct. 2 following explosions at two administrative offices in Kyimyindaing Township Sept. 30. Urban guerilla group Mission K reportedly claimed responsibility for the attacks targeting administrative officials involved in the ongoing national census. Mission K and local media sources provide conflicting casualty counts, but several people were injured in the attacks, including officials and civilians.
Officials have reportedly tightened security around census offices and stepped up patrols of plainclothes and uniformed officers, including around schools and religious buildings. Authorities could conduct random stop checks and vehicle inspections and tighten security at border checkpoints into Yangon. These measures will likely continue through the end of the national census Oct. 15 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 Yangon. 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 likelihood of attacks by urban guerillas is elevated during the nationwide population and household census Oct. 1-15 held by the junta ahead of the elections tentatively planned for 2025. 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. Following calls from activist groups to resist involvement in the census effort, an increased frequency of anti-junta demonstrations is also possible through Oct. 15.
