Statement to prevent unwarranted tension and unrest that could be incited by news of possible ARSA terrorist group’s attacks

September 5, 2017

Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

Office of the State Counsellor

Statement to prevent unwarranted tension and unrest that could be incited by news of possible ARSA terrorist group’s attacks

(5 September 2017)

1. The Government security forces are undertaking security operations to maintain peace and stability that have been threatened by brutal attacks of the ARSA extremist terrorist group in the Northern Rakhine State. At the same time, the Government is providing emergency aid and relief to those who are displaced by terrorist attacks. Ensuring that those inhabitants who are innocent and not part of the terrorist movement be able to live without fear for their safety and security, it is also working to apprehend the terrorists to bring them to justice.

2. In the meantime, news about preparation being made by terrorists to stage bomb attacks against innocent civilians in Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, Mandalay and other big cities in the country have been brought to our attention. The aim of such attacks will be to attract international focus on and to garner support for their activities in Maungdaw and Buthedaung in Rakhine State.

3. Government has already issued security alerts and instructions to all State and Division governments throughout the country and to the Nay Pyi Taw Council. It is important to remain vigilant of the fact that there is a possible danger of terrorist attacks being used to incite ethnic or religious tension or public unrest.

4. Hence, we urge the people to remain security conscious and report any suspicious person, activity, or irregularities in their areas to the nearest administration authorities or to security personnel. People also need to be on guard against those instigators who, for their own benefit and interest, will ferment ethnic or religious tension by using the possible threats of terrorist attacks. The people are urged to stand together with the Government and render their cooperation in the Government efforts to maintain peace and stability throughout the country.

Ref; The Global New Light of Myanmar