Analysis
In 2022, there were 874 arrests, 615 in 2023, and 202 in 2024 (up to the end of October). Compared to
2022, the number of arrests per month gradually decreased in 2023 and 2024. The highest number of
arrests occurred between May and August 2022, with 524 individuals arrested over those four months.
On average, 56 individuals were arrested each month from February 2022 to October 2024.
Monthly Trends in Total Arrests for Online Expression in Myanmar
Over the past two years, regions like Kachin, Kayah (Karenni), Chin, Rakhine, and Eastern Shan have
seen fewer than 40 arrests each. In Northern Shan, Southern Shan, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Nay Pyi Taw,
Western Bago, and Mon, the number of arrests ranges from 40 to 100. Regions with over 100 arrests
include Yangon, Mandalay, Eastern Bago, Magway and Ayeyarwady regions, with Yangon seeing the
highest number at 428 arrests.
Between February 2022 and October 2024, arrests occurred in 223 townships due to their online
expression on social media or online communications opposing the Myanmar military and supporting
public movements and resistance groups. Among these townships, Bago had 69 arrests, Chanmyathazi
had 58, North Okkalapa had 47, and Mahaaungmyay had 42, Aungmyaythazan had 41, and Pyay had
40, making them the most heavily targeted. Townships with 20 to 40 arrests include Taunggyi,
Pyigyitagon, Pyinoolwin, Magway, South Dagon, Thingangyun, Patheingyi, Chanayethazan,
Shwepyitha, Pakokku, Nyaung-U, Myeik, North Dagon, Myingyan and Amarapura.