Authorities have tightened security in populated areas and entry and exit of Mandalay, sources said.

The US embassy in Yangon issued security alert due to reports of potential attacks in Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay.

“We have tightened security and are conducting operations to search for mines and bombs in populated areas,” said Police Lt-Col Sai Hla Htoo, head of Mandalay district police force.

Security forces are conducting operations in populated areas such as Mahamuni Pagoda, Manawyaman, central point shopping mall, ocean center and Swetaw Pagoda.

The US embassy issued an announcement on September 26 to warn about potential attacks in Nay Pyi Taw on September 26, October 16, and October 26, and in Nay Pyi Taw, Yangon, and Mandalay in the coming months.