The Myanmar military plans to allow people it considers patriots to have licenses to hold guns. The move raises concerns of further violence, two years after the military seized power in a coup.

NHK has obtained a 15-page document dated January 31. It says the arms control law has been revised.

It states that "outstanding citizens" who are loyal to the nation can hold a license for several types of firearms.

It says those who get the license must take part in security measures against so-called "criminal activities" when called on by the authorities.

Analysts say this could be a step toward escalating the crackdown against pro-democracy and armed ethnic groups.

They say the military wants to increase the involvement of loyal militants.

Independent media in Myanmar say civilians cannot purchase guns at shops, so the move is seen as an attempt to legitimize gun ownership by loyal supporters.