Jonathan, Narinjara News, 20 February 2025 

On February 18, the military junta enacted the Private Security Services Law, allowing foreign firms to offer private security services and possess arms and ammunition. 

The legislation comprises 13 chapters and 55 sections. Section 17 of Chapter 6, detailing the duties and entitlements of license holders, specifies that if the licensee is an overseas company, a minimum of 75 percent of the private security staff employed must be citizens of Myanmar. 

In other terms, a licensed foreign private security firm is permitted to hire as much as 25 percent foreign security staff. 

Section 20 states that the licensee, while offering private security services, is required to adhere to the regulations regarding the possession of firearms, ammunition, and associated gear. This requires approval from the Central Committee and must be carried out according to the Weapons Law, rules regarding the carrying of arms and ammunition, and other applicable legislation. 

Subsection (b) of Section 18 states that the licensee is required to buy, sell, possess, or utilize communication devices, technological security support tools, and other permitted resources approved by the Central Committee in accordance with current laws, licensing rules, and regulations, with permission from the Central Committee. 

Per Section 4(a) of Chapter 3, a Supervisory Central Committee for Private Security Services will be formed, with the Union Minister of the Ministry of Home Affairs acting as the chair. 

The military junta asserts that the legislation aims to uphold national security, maintain the rule of law, and ensure public tranquility, along with promoting organized collaboration between private security firms and governmental security bodies. A political analyst, speaking on the condition of anonymity, indicated that the law is actually aimed at safeguarding China's interests in Myanmar while providing a chance for Chinese security firms to establish a foothold in the nation. 

The analyst additionally highlighted that the junta had given up authority over multiple regions, including sites linked to significant ventures like the Kyaukphyu deep-sea port and oil pipeline in Arakan State, the Letpadaung copper mine located in Sagaing Region, and the Muse-Ruili pipeline initiative extending from Kyaukphyu through northern Shan State. The analyst contended that the junta's failure to ensure security in these regions has opened the door for Chinese armed security firms to come in. 

Captain Zin Yaw, an active member of the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), informed RFA that the present circumstances have prompted the junta to request additional support from security firms.