Authorities under Myanmar’s military junta are reportedly preparing to arrest motorists who violate the newly imposed “odd–even” vehicle restriction, according to sources close to township administrative officials.
The sources said security personnel from multiple departments are expected to begin monitoring roads and arresting violators starting March 7, in a move similar to previous crackdowns on unregistered vehicles.
Since the order was issued, township authorities have reportedly held daily coordination meetings at General Administration Offices, led by township administrators and police chiefs together with ward and village administrative officials. A source close to the Thanbyuzayat Township administration said the meetings indicate that enforcement could soon become strict.
“Meetings are being held at the General Administration Office regarding the odd–even rule. They said arrests will begin on the 7th. Officials appear eager because they expect to collect money from the public,” the source said.
The junta’s information team announced that beginning March 7, private vehicles must follow an odd–even license plate system as part of fuel-saving measures. Under the order, vehicles with odd-numbered license plates may operate on odd-numbered dates, while vehicles with even-numbered plates may operate on even-numbered dates.
Authorities said the policy was introduced due to disruptions in global fuel transportation routes caused by conflicts in the Middle East, which have affected fuel imports.
Although the announcement warned that violators would face legal action under existing laws, it did not specify which legal provisions would be applied.
However, sources close to government departments said violators could be prosecuted under Section 188 of the Penal Code, which penalizes disobedience to an official order.
The law allows penalties of up to six months in prison, a fine, or both. According to a source close to the township administration, the rule may also create opportunities for officials to extort money from local residents.
“Many villagers who come to town ride newer motorcycles like Click or PCX models. Because those bikes are expensive, they can easily demand money from the riders. Some people may not even know about the odd–even rule, so arrests could happen in groups, similar to the unregistered vehicle crackdowns,” the source said.
According to information collected by IMNA, during operations targeting unregistered vehicles in 2025, owners were reportedly required to pay up to 50 lakh kyats to retrieve confiscated motorcycles. Those unable to pay the amount have still not had their vehicles returned.
Residents also say the newly announced odd–even driving rule lacks clarity and could create difficulties for office workers and people who rely on vehicles for daily travel.
