YANGON, Myanmar—Over the last week, Myanmar’s military regime has intensified a repressive campaign against its own citizens, shuttering independent media outlets and arresting opposition members in late-night raids. Two party figures have died in custody. And after weeks of peaceful pro-democracy protests, the junta has begun cracking down on activists with lethal force. On March 3, security forces killed at least 30 people nationwide, including eight people in Yangon’s North Okkalapa township, the deadliest incident so far.
While the military likely intended to put an end to the protests with lethal violence, the movement has simply changed shape. In Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, foot traffic has slowed to the level of the strict pandemic lockdowns last year, but in protest areas, small groups of unarmed activists face off with police and soldiers. More than one month after the Feb. 1 coup, protesters have dug in their heels and adapted their tactics, erecting roadblocks and barriers, embedding themselves in neighborhoods, and evading arrest.
