At least 18 people were killed and more than 30 injured on Sunday when Myanmar’s security forces cracked down on protests against the recent coup, the UN Human Rights Office reported.
The murders allegedly occurred as a result of shots fired at those gathered in Yangon, Dawei, Mandalay, Myeik, Bago and Pokokku, the office said in a statement, referring to several cities in Myanmar. “Tear gas was also reportedly used in various locations, as well as blinding explosions and stun grenades.”
Violence
“We strongly condemn the increasing violence against protesters in Myanmar and call on the military to immediately stop using violence against peaceful protesters,” said Ravina Shamdasani spokeswoman.
It would be the most deaths in one day among protesters demanding that Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government be restored after being deposed during the February 1 military coup.
Sunday’s violence began early in the morning as medical students marched through the streets of Yangon near the intersection of the Hledan Center, which has become a rallying point for protesters before moving to other points of the city.
Footage from the site showed people running to flee from the police and neighbors erecting makeshift barricades to stop the advance of the security forces.