Myanmar’s military has been banned from Facebook and Instagram with immediate effect.

In a blog post-Thursday,  Facebook said that it has banned Myanmar’s military from using Facebook and Instagram.

“Events since the February 1 coup, including deadly violence, have precipitated a need for this ban. We believe the risks of allowing the Tatmadaw on Facebook and Instagram are too great,” the statement said, referring to the official name of Myanmar’s armed forces.

“The coup greatly increases the danger posed by the behaviors above and the likelihood that online threats could lead to offline harm,” said Facebook.

The ban does not affect the government ministries and agencies which provide essential public services, Facebook said.

Thousands of people across the country have been protesting against the coup. At least, three people have been dead following after the security forces cracked down violently against the protesters.