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Some thoughts on mob violence and how it relates to Yangon’s current “night patrols”. Mob violence by civilians is common in situations where civilians have no trust in police or judicial system. It can be compounded by fear and suspicion. Sound familiar?
Cambodia, for example, is one of the most corrupt countries on earth. Locals often dole out mob justice, especially to wealthy people who they believe will bribe their way out of trouble. In 2017, a man was viciously beaten by a mob after killing 3 in a hit and run
But there are also instances of grave errors. A mentally ill man beaten to death for acting suspiciously in 2015. A professor beaten into a coma after a minor fender bender that the mob mistakenly believed had killed somebody
It’s likely there are some Tatmadaw goons out in Yangon causing trouble. I’m also sure that random drug users, homeless people, and mentally ill people could get caught up in the paranoia.
The Tatmadaw has created an atmosphere of fear, but this is playing out exactly how they want; paranoia, mistrust and violence. Everybody should take a deep breath and reevaluate this situation a little more critically
