There have been frequent clashes between the Myanmar military and local armed forces, and the situation is likely to deteriorate again

On 8 November, it was learned that since the military coup in Myanmar, there have been frequent clashes between Myanmar armed groups and with the Burmese military. Since Feb. 1, the "Government of National Unity" (a coalition of democratically elected leaders removed by the military and armed groups opposed to the junta) has called on local forces to launch offensives against the military, and clashes in Myanmar have increased. It is worth noting the recent frequent clashes between armed groups and the Myanmar Defence Forces in Chin and Shan States.

Recently, the Myanmar Defence Forces clashed with armed groups such as the local People's Defence Forces militia, the Chin National Front and the Chin State Self-Defence Force in the Farran, Haka, Batumbi and Minda areas of Chin State, resulting in the deaths of soldiers and militants. Since the beginning of October, the "National Administration Committee" established by the Burmese Defence Forces has sent large numbers of troops to Chin State through the neighbouring provinces of Magway and Sagaing. According to foreign media, the Burmese military has used religious buildings as a base to crack down on local armed groups, and the military's actions have caused local residents to live in panic, and many have left the villages where they live. Armed groups are expected to increase the scale and frequency of attacks on the military, at least in the short term.

At the same time, there have been recent clashes involving multiple groups in various parts of Shan State. On 25 October, the People's Defence Forces and the Myanmar Defence Forces clashed in the Begun area, killing at least 10 soldiers and the Burmese Defence Forces shelled the conflict area. More clashes between armed groups and the military are likely in the coming weeks. In addition, recently, the Shan State Reconstruction Committee and the Shan State Progressive Party have also clashed in Shan State.

At present, the conflict in Chin and Shan States has forced a large number of civilians to leave their homes, and the scope of the conflict may spread to other areas. The contradictions between the armed forces of the "Government of National Unity" and the military are irreconcilable, and the possibility of serious conflict in Myanmar cannot be ruled out.

This magazine recommends: (1) The security risks in Myanmar are very high, and even the situation may deteriorate, so it is not recommended that our citizens travel to Myanmar in the near future, especially in high-risk areas such as Chin And Shan States. (2) Chinese citizens in Myanmar must raise their awareness of security, pay close attention to the development of the local situation, strictly abide by local control measures, and do not talk about sensitive topics such as politics. Chinese-funded enterprises in Myanmar should strengthen the safety of their residents, ensure the safety of employees' lives and the safety of their company's property, and not participate in local political affairs and not choose sides. (3) Violent incidents may affect local traffic, and there should be plenty of time when going out. (4) Authorities will strengthen security measures in conflict areas, set up checkpoints and close roads, etc., and militant groups may also strengthen patrols in the area, minimize going out, and carry ID with them to cooperate with inspections when going out. (5) Stay away from government agencies, military and police facilities and other places that are vulnerable to attack, do not participate in demonstrations and demonstrations, do not watch or take pictures, and be vigilant against suspicious objects and suspicious personnel. (Contributed by Li Jie Li)