Myanmar’s military has warned anti-coup protesters across the country that they could face up to 20 years in prison if they obstruct the armed forces.
Long sentences and fines will also apply to those found to incite “hatred or contempt” towards the coup leaders, the military said.
The legal changes were announced as armoured vehicles appeared on the streets of several cities.
Hundreds of thousands of people have taken part in protests in recent days.
The demonstrators are demanding the release from detention of their elected leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and the restoration of democracy in Myanmar, also known as Burma.
BBC