Pro-military groups tried to disrupt anti-coup protests

As anti-coup protests continue throughout Myanmar in defiance of military orders forbidding large gatherings, a new element has begun to enter the picture: pro-military groups seeking to provoke violence.

On Tuesday, Myanmar Now witnessed the arrival of at least 15 vehicles filled with army supporters looking to disrupt peaceful protests near Sule Pagoda in downtown Yangon.

Waving Myanmar flags and blaring military parade songs, these would-be provocateurs have become a more common sight as the protests against military rule gather strength.

Many are indistinguishable from other members of the public, most of whom have warmly welcomed the protesters into their neighbourhoods. What makes them stand out is their belligerence.

“Two women tried to start something with me,” said one man who had joined the protest near Sule Pagoda. “But my friend got between us and I just walked away, because I didn’t want to mess with them.”

The cars and trucks they arrived in were also notable for their covered license plates. At crosswalks, some of the men inside these vehicles jumped out and brandished heavy wooden sticks at protesters as they made their way across the road.

So far, anti-coup protesters have avoided trouble by refusing to react to aggressive behaviour. Confronted by the menacing-looking men, most simply ignored them and continued on their way.

In Yangon—a city with many international organizations and foreign reporters—the protests have not yet met with a crackdown from the authorities.

However, as the standoff continues, fears are growing that the situation could soon turn violent.