The former longtime military dictator of Myanmar, Than Shwe, has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and is expected to remain hospitalized for two weeks, an official told AP.

Than Shwe, 88, was admitted along with his wife to the Thaik Chaung military hospital in the capital, Naypyitaw, about three or four days ago after they both tested positive for the coronavirus, a hospital employee said, according to the report.

The two are being treated in a VIP section of the hospital under tight security, the employee said on condition of anonymity for fear of possible reprisals, AP reports.

Myanmar is struggling to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, in part due to the poor condition of the health services, and the alleged neglect of the issue by the ruling junta.