Security beefed up to ease tourists' fears in beauty spots

This year, rioting, ongoing insurgent conflict in some states and rumours of possible terrorist attacks have spurred Myanmar’s police to beef up protection for foreign visitors.

“Effective security measures have been taken in areas where most tourists visit. The Tourist Police Department is now working together with local police forces to implement these measures. Our force is still young … so we are trying hard to improve,” said Police Colonel Myo Min Oo of the Tourist Police Department.

Local police across the country are also leading activities aimed at tourist safety, including engaging directly with visitors. 

“Many tourists visit our area, so our police patrol here every day,” said a senior police officer from Nyaung Shwe Township in Shan State. “We have taken necessary measures to prevent visitors getting into trouble in the area. Yesterday, we persuaded a foreign couple who were planning to stay overnight by the roadside to get to a nearby hotel. We help as much as we can.”