New sanctions against Myanmar are announced by the United Kingdom

Following a coup earlier this year, the United Kingdom imposed new Myanmar sanctions, stating it was targeting a key business ally of the military administration for supplying weaponry and financial support.

The UK's foreign ministry announced that the Htoo Group of Companies and its founder, Tay Za, would have their assets frozen, citing the tycoon's involvement in arms purchases on behalf of the military.

In 2017, Htoo reportedly supplied funding to Rohingya clearance operations.

Following the February coup, the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on persons and businesses in Myanmar.

In a statement, UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, "The military regime has showed no signs of ceasing its ruthless attack on the people of Myanmar."

“The UK will continue to restrict the junta's access to cash and the supply of armaments used to kill innocent people, including children, in collaboration with our partners, and will target those who support the junta's actions.”

Htoo Group and Tay Za's British assets would be frozen, and the billionaire will be barred from entering the country.

Tay Za was linked to the military, according to the UK, "via his strong contacts with the former and current junta administrations."

It accused him of supporting "severe human rights violations in his job as an arms broker for the military."

Myanmar Gems Enterprise, Myanmar Economic Corporation, and Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd, all military-linked conglomerates, have already been sanctioned by the United Kingdom.