Britons have been told to flee Myanmar unless they have an “urgent” reason to stay, as the government grows concerned about violence following the military coup.
After one of the bloodiest days of the regime’s crackdown, Britain’s Foreign Office on Friday advised British nationals to leave the Southeast Asian country by commercial means.
At least 10 people protesting the coup were shot dead by Myanmar security forces on Thursday, an independent United Nations expert cited mounting evidence of crimes against humanity.
Updated advice for UK nationals in Myanmar: Unless there are urgent reasons, you should leave the country on business. embassy and ? ? Will continue to support the restoration of democracy and the end of violence. https://t.co/tWzLNuTiwo
— Britain in Myanmar?? (@ukinmyanmar) March 12, 2021
Protests, strikes and other forms of civil disobedience have engulfed the country since the Feb. 1 coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi’s government.
It is estimated that around 300 British nationals remain in Myanmar, the vast majority of whom are residents, while a small number are believed to be engaged in short-term business.
They were urged to leave amid fears of a deteriorating security situation and escalating violence in residential areas.
The official guidance was updated to read: “British nationals are advised to leave the country by business unless there is an urgent need to stay.”
