The bloody anniversary has also been marked by six separate bomb explosions in Yangon's suburbs Wednesday night and early Thursday morning.

Altogether six explosions were reported in Hlaing Tha Yar and Shwe Pauk Kan townships. There were no reported injuries or damage from the bombs, which were placed in isolated areas away from crowds, sources said.

Political observers speculated that the bombs might be a show of defiance against the ruling junta, on the anniversary of the crackdown.

Myanmar remains under military rule today.