EMBASSY CONVENES SEPTEMBER 27 EAC MEETING

UNCLAS RANGOON 000918 SIPDIS SIPDIS SENSITIVE DEPARTMENT FOR EAP/MLS; INR/EAP; S/ES-O/CMS; CA/OSC/ACS; DS/IP/EAP; DS/ITA; DSCC E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: BM ASEC CASC AMGT PREL AEMR SUBJECT: EMBASSY CONVENES SEPTEMBER 27 EAC MEETING REF: RANGOON 914 AND PREVIOUS ¶1. (SBU) On September 27 the Embassy convened another EAC to discuss yesterday's resort to violence against the demonstrators. RSO reported that our current security posture was sufficient, because none of the activity has been targeted at the Embassy or Embassy personnel. A curfew has been imposed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily (vice earlier reports of 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.),which we will observe as far as possible. RSO advised embassy personnel to carry their radios due to unreliable phone service. He also advised that people continue to use caution, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and avoid areas with heavy security forces, since many troops seem to be uninformed of procedures in situations out of the norm. All members agreed that no change in our security posture was needed at this time, but required regular review as the expectation of harsher action by the military increased. ¶2. (SBU) Management officer reported that the Embassy is well stocked with fuel, water, food and cash in case we cannot get supplies from outside for a time. We have a twenty day supply of fuel at the embassy. We also have approximately US $130,000 on hand, as well as a supply of kyat. Embassy Bangkok has informed us that they will send extra cash if necessary. We have also obligated funds for one year roundtrip tickets to Bangkok for employees and their families if the need arises. International schools in Rangoon have closed, some for an extended time and others reviewing the situation day by day. ¶3. (SBU) The EAC will reconvene on September 28. We will continue to monitor and evaluate the situation as it develops. VILLAROSA