Myanmar Spring Chronicle – December 26 Observations
MoeMaKa, December 27, 2024
Peak Period of Crime Incidents
Since the coup, the absence of the rule of law has escalated significantly, especially in the months following the military takeover. Even before, Myanmar’s legal framework was not entirely effective. However, crimes tended to occur in remote or less crowded areas rather than in urban centers or during daylight. Now, incidents are happening openly during the day in crowded city streets. Targets primarily include businesses and residences that can yield significant monetary gains, such as gold shops, mobile phone stores, and banks.
In a recent string of events, armed robberies, abductions, and killings occurred on the same day in Monywa, Mandalay, and Yangon. In Monywa, an attempt to kidnap a female owner of a second-hand goods shop resulted in her being fatally shot during a struggle. In Mandalay, a gold shop was robbed of about one tical of gold.
The increase in armed robberies, looting, and violent crimes can be attributed to the military’s focus on protecting their own security and military personnel rather than enforcing the rule of law. Police forces have been assisting the military in combat operations, especially in conflict zones. Even in cities without active conflict, police resources are directed toward suppressing opposition activities, conducting security checks for unofficial monetary gains, and extorting money from travelers at checkpoints.
In politically significant cases, the military council prioritizes security measures to protect their interests rather than addressing public safety. This negligence has resulted in citizens having to fend for their own security.
Crime Surge and Military Ties
The surge in crimes following the coup has also been leveraged by military propaganda to associate criminal activities with armed resistance groups. However, there is little evidence linking most criminal acts, such as armed robbery or looting, to political or resistance groups. Instead, the proliferation of weapons in urban areas due to ongoing conflicts has made firearms more accessible, contributing to the rise in crimes.
Most perpetrators are not politically affiliated but include individuals with criminal histories or those coerced by armed groups for monetary or operational purposes.
Broader Impacts and Public Safety
In addition to armed robberies, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, snatching, and motorbike theft have become widespread in cities. Citizens now find themselves taking personal precautions to avoid falling victim to these crimes. Public trust in the military council’s judicial system and police has deteriorated due to widespread corruption and inefficiency.
Looting of homes and businesses during urban combat operations has also become common across various regions, including Rakhine State, Northern and Southern Shan States, and Kachin State.
Call for Action
In this chaotic environment, questions arise about how the public can protect themselves and what role resistance groups can play in ensuring safety. Resistance forces, focused on military objectives, are urged to consider mechanisms for public protection. Civilian networks and mutual aid initiatives must emerge to ensure collective security.
While some argue that prioritizing safety during a revolutionary period is unrealistic, others believe that addressing public concerns and insecurities is essential, given the uncertainty about the revolution’s duration. Balancing revolutionary goals with public welfare remains a pressing need.