Myanmar army seizes power in coup

The Foreign Office is advising against all but essential travel across Myanmar following a coup by the country’s military.

In an announcement on military-run television, Myanmar’s army said it has seized power after detaining de-facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other senior members of her governing party, and declared a state of emergency for a year.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCO) said: "As of 1 February, the Myanmar military have declared a state of emergency and assumed control. There are reports that figures in the Civilian Government and civil society have been detained by the military. The British Embassy is following the situation carefully and will continue to update the Travel Advice. There may be disruptions to internet, phone networks and ATMs. You are advised to stay home and stay safe."

The FCO said the government of Myanmar has suspended all international commercial passenger flights until 28 February at the earliest and all land borders are shut.

By Louise Longman, Contributing Editor (UK)