A&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;arrested while covering the aftermath of the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;coup arrived in&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Friday, after charges against him were dropped as a diplomatic gesture.

Yuki Kitazumi,&nbsp;held&nbsp;in Yangon's Insein prison since his arrest last month, was one of at least 80 reporters detained during the junta's crackdown on anti-coup dissent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/japanese-journalist-charged-in-myanmar-for-spreading-false-news-382763">Japanese journalist charged in Myanmar for spreading false news</a>

Security forces have killed more than 780 people since protests erupted following the February 1 coup that ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, according to a local monitoring group.

"I am in good health, both mentally and physically," said Kitazumi after landing at&nbsp;Tokyo's Narita airport.

But he admitted he was "extremely frustrated" at being deported from&nbsp;Myanmar.

"I am a&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;and I wanted to convey what was happening in Yangon," he said, adding that he had collected harrowing testimonies from his fellow inmates in prison.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-soldiers-aiming-to-silence-protests-target-journalists-375047">Myanmar soldiers, aiming to silence protests, target journalists</a>

"Some are deprived of meals for two days, others are questioned whilst being threatened with a weapon, or beaten if they try to deny (the allegations).

"Thanks to my&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;nationality, I was able to escape this type of treatment, but the reality is that many Burmese are being tortured."

Japanese&nbsp;Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said earlier that&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;had used "various channels" to press for Kitazumi's release and that it had been "tough work".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/japan-seeks-release-of-journalist-arrested-in-myanmar-for-second-time-378647">Japan seeks release of journalist arrested in Myanmar for second time</a>

"As a result of those efforts, yesterday the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;authorities announced that they would withdraw the indictment," he told reporters in&nbsp;Tokyo.

$4 million food aid&nbsp;

The minister also announced that Japan has offered&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;$4 million in emergency food aid via the World Food Programme.

The support is expected to help 600,000 people.

"Food supply to the impoverished population in Yangon region is rapidly deteriorating amid this situation, and they are facing difficulties in even maintaining the most basic living conditions," the&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

In late March, Japan had announced it was suspending new aid to&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;in response to the coup.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/japan-finalising-plans-to-halt-fresh-aid-to-myanmar-says-report-366083">Japan finalising plans to halt fresh aid to Myanmar, says report</a>

"We have continued our calls on&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;to immediately stop violence, release those who are detained (political prisoners) and return to the democratic political process," Motegi said.

Myanmar&nbsp;state broadcaster MRTV announced Thursday that the charges against&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;Kitazumi were being dropped "in order to reconcile with Japan and improve our relationship".

State media said an earlier investigation found that Kitazumi "supported the protests".

He was charged under a newly revised provision in the penal code which criminalises spreading fake news, criticising the coup or encouraging disobedience among soldiers and civil servants.&nbsp;

Those convicted can face up to three years in jail.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thailand-seeking-humanitarian-solution-for-detained-myanmar-journalists-384263">Thailand seeking 'humanitarian' solution for detained Myanmar journalists</a>

Kitazumi, who had previously been arrested in February but released soon afterwards, was the first foreign&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;to be charged since the coup.

A Polish photographer arrested while covering a protest in March was freed and deported after nearly two weeks in custody.

As well as arresting reporters and photographers, the junta has also revoked broadcasting licences and ordered regular internet outages as it seeks to suppress news of the anti-coup protest movement.

On Wednesday, a reporter for independent media outlet DVB, Min Nyo, was sentenced to three years in jail for criminal mutiny.

Ko Aung Kyaw Oo, a former reporter for Tomorrow Journal, was arrested on Thursday afternoon, his son confirmed to AFP.

Forty-five journalists and photographers remain in custody across&nbsp;Myanmar, according to monitoring group Reporting ASEAN.

A Japanese journalist arrested while covering the aftermath of the Myanmar coup arrived in Tokyo Friday, after charges against him were dropped as a diplomatic gesture.

A Japanese journalist arrested while covering the aftermath of the Myanmar coup arrived in Tokyo Friday, after charges against him were dropped as a diplomatic gesture. Yuki Kitazumi, held in Yangon's Insein prison since his arrest last month, was one of at least 80 reporters detained during the junta's crackdown on anti-coup dissent. Also read | Japanese journalist charged in Myanmar for spreading false news Security forces have killed more than 780 people since protests erupted following the February 1 coup that ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, according to a local monitoring group. "I am in good health, both mentally and physically," said Kitazumi after landing at Tokyo's Narita airport. But he admitted he was "extremely frustrated" at being deported from Myanmar. "I am a journalist and I wanted to convey what was happening in Yangon," he said, adding that he had collected harrowing testimonies from his fellow inmates in prison. Also read | Myanmar soldiers, aiming to silence protests, target journalists "Some are deprived of meals for two days, others are questioned whilst being threatened with a weapon, or beaten if they try to deny (the allegations). "Thanks to my Japanese nationality, I was able to escape this type of treatment, but the reality is that many Burmese are being tortured." Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said earlier that Tokyo had used "various channels" to press for Kitazumi's release and that it had been "tough work". Also read | Japan seeks release of journalist arrested in Myanmar for second time "As a result of those efforts, yesterday the Myanmar authorities announced that they would withdraw the indictment," he told reporters in Tokyo. $4 million food aid The minister also announced that Japan has offered Myanmar $4 million in emergency food aid via the World Food Programme. The support is expected to help 600,000 people. "Food supply to the impoverished population in Yangon region is rapidly deteriorating amid this situation, and they are facing difficulties in even maintaining the most basic living conditions," the Japanese Foreign Ministry said in a statement. In late March, Japan had announced it was suspending new aid to Myanmar in response to the coup. Also read | Japan finalising plans to halt fresh aid to Myanmar, says report "We have continued our calls on Myanmar to immediately stop violence, release those who are detained (political prisoners) and return to the democratic political process," Motegi said. Myanmar state broadcaster MRTV announced Thursday that the charges against journalist Kitazumi were being dropped "in order to reconcile with Japan and improve our relationship". State media said an earlier investigation found that Kitazumi "supported the protests". He was charged under a newly revised provision in the penal code which criminalises spreading fake news, criticising the coup or encouraging disobedience among soldiers and civil servants. Those convicted can face up to three years in jail. Also read | Thailand seeking 'humanitarian' solution for detained Myanmar journalists Kitazumi, who had previously been arrested in February but released soon afterwards, was the first foreign journalist to be charged since the coup. A Polish photographer arrested while covering a protest in March was freed and deported after nearly two weeks in custody. As well as arresting reporters and photographers, the junta has also revoked broadcasting licences and ordered regular internet outages as it seeks to suppress news of the anti-coup protest movement. On Wednesday, a reporter for independent media outlet DVB, Min Nyo, was sentenced to three years in jail for criminal mutiny. Ko Aung Kyaw Oo, a former reporter for Tomorrow Journal, was arrested on Thursday afternoon, his son confirmed to AFP. Forty-five journalists and photographers remain in custody across Myanmar, according to monitoring group Reporting ASEAN.

Japanese journalist held in Myanmar arrives in Tokyo

Myanmar's army battled local militia fighters in the northwestern town of Mindat on Saturday, residents said, to try to quell a rebellion that has sprung up to oppose the junta which seized power in the Southeast Asian country in February.

The fighting is some of the heaviest since the coup and underlines the growing chaos as the junta struggles to impose order in the face of daily protests, strikes and sabotage attacks after it overthrew elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

"We are running for our lives," one resident told Reuters from Mindat, a hill town just over 100 km (60 miles) from the border with India.

"There are around 20,000 people trapped in town, most of them are kids, old people," the resident added. "My friend's three nieces were hit by shrapnel. They are not even teens.”

The junta imposed martial law in Mindat on Thursday and then stepped up attacks on what it called "armed terrorists". A junta spokesman did not answer calls requesting comment on the fighting on Saturday.

Army-controlled Myawaddy television said around 1,000 "unscrupulous people" had attacked with small arms and homemade grenades in recent days, and that some members of the security forces were killed and others missing. It said security forces would work day and night to bring order.

Fighters of the Chinland Defence Force retreated as military reinforcements advanced with artillery bombardments and helicopter attacks, a member of a local administration set up by the junta's opponents told Reuters by phone.

Five civilians had been killed in Mindat in the past two days, said Doctor Sasa, minister of international cooperation in a shadow National Unity Government set up to rival the junta.

US&nbsp;APPEAL

"The military’s use of weapons of war against civilians, including this week in Mindat, is a further demonstration of the depths the regime will sink to to hold on to power," the US&nbsp;Embassy in Myanmar said in a statement. "We call on the military to cease violence against civilians."

Myanmar already had some two dozen ethnic armed groups, who have waged war for decades against an army dominated by the Bamar majority.

The Chinland Defence Force was set up in response to the coup. Facing one of the region's best equipped armies, its fighters are armed largely with home-made hunting guns. Reuters was unable to reach the group for comment on Saturday.

At least 788 people have been killed by the junta's security forces in crackdowns on protests against its rule, according to an advocacy group.

The military, which disputes that number, imposes tight restrictions on media, information and the Internet. Reuters cannot independently verify arrests and casualty numbers.

Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told a news conference that 63 people had been killed recently in what he described as various "terrorist attacks" by the administration's opponents, appealing to people to inform on the attackers.

Anti-junta protests were held in the main city of Myanmar and many other towns on Saturday.

A poet who had criticised military rule had been soaked in gasoline and burned to death in the central town of Monywa on Friday, residents said. Sein Win was the third poet to be killed in the town, a stronghold of opposition to the junta.

The army took power alleging fraud in an election won by Suu Kyi's party in November. Its claims of irregularities were rejected by the electoral commission.

Myanmar's army battled local militia fighters in the northwestern town of Mindat on Saturday, residents said, to try to quell a rebellion that has sprung up to oppose the junta which seized power in the Southeast Asian country in February.

Myanmar's army battled local militia fighters in the northwestern town of Mindat on Saturday, residents said, to try to quell a rebellion that has sprung up to oppose the junta which seized power in the Southeast Asian country in February. The fighting is some of the heaviest since the coup and underlines the growing chaos as the junta struggles to impose order in the face of daily protests, strikes and sabotage attacks after it overthrew elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. "We are running for our lives," one resident told Reuters from Mindat, a hill town just over 100 km (60 miles) from the border with India. "There are around 20,000 people trapped in town, most of them are kids, old people," the resident added. "My friend's three nieces were hit by shrapnel. They are not even teens.” The junta imposed martial law in Mindat on Thursday and then stepped up attacks on what it called "armed terrorists". A junta spokesman did not answer calls requesting comment on the fighting on Saturday. Army-controlled Myawaddy television said around 1,000 "unscrupulous people" had attacked with small arms and homemade grenades in recent days, and that some members of the security forces were killed and others missing. It said security forces would work day and night to bring order. Fighters of the Chinland Defence Force retreated as military reinforcements advanced with artillery bombardments and helicopter attacks, a member of a local administration set up by the junta's opponents told Reuters by phone. Five civilians had been killed in Mindat in the past two days, said Doctor Sasa, minister of international cooperation in a shadow National Unity Government set up to rival the junta. US APPEAL "The military’s use of weapons of war against civilians, including this week in Mindat, is a further demonstration of the depths the regime will sink to to hold on to power," the US Embassy in Myanmar said in a statement. "We call on the military to cease violence against civilians." Myanmar already had some two dozen ethnic armed groups, who have waged war for decades against an army dominated by the Bamar majority. The Chinland Defence Force was set up in response to the coup. Facing one of the region's best equipped armies, its fighters are armed largely with home-made hunting guns. Reuters was unable to reach the group for comment on Saturday. At least 788 people have been killed by the junta's security forces in crackdowns on protests against its rule, according to an advocacy group. The military, which disputes that number, imposes tight restrictions on media, information and the Internet. Reuters cannot independently verify arrests and casualty numbers. Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told a news conference that 63 people had been killed recently in what he described as various "terrorist attacks" by the administration's opponents, appealing to people to inform on the attackers. Anti-junta protests were held in the main city of Myanmar and many other towns on Saturday. A poet who had criticised military rule had been soaked in gasoline and burned to death in the central town of Monywa on Friday, residents said. Sein Win was the third poet to be killed in the town, a stronghold of opposition to the junta. The army took power alleging fraud in an election won by Suu Kyi's party in November. Its claims of irregularities were rejected by the electoral commission.

Myanmar army battles anti-coup rebels as armed resistance grows

Myanmar's junta has declared martial law in a town in Chin State after blaming "armed terrorists" for attacks on a police station and a bank, state media reported on Friday, amid an upsurge in fighting between the military and ethnic rebels in border areas.

In the face of widespread opposition, the junta has struggled to retain order amid daily protests in cities and fighting in border states since overthrowing elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi to end tentative steps towards democracy.

The unrest in the town of Mindat on Wednesday and Thursday involved about 100 people using homemade guns to attack a police station and about 50 targeting the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;Economic Bank, the state&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;News Agency reported.

It said that the security forces had repelled the attack without suffering any casualties.

A document declaring the imposition of martial law in the town in Chin State, which borders India, was posted in The Global New Light of&nbsp;Myanmar, a state newspaper.

Reuters could not independently confirm the state media reports on the situation in Mindat.

But a document posted on social media by local media claiming to be from a rival anti-junta administration in the Mindat area said the declaration of martial law was invalid.

It also said that the fighting was triggered by the army breaking a promise to release seven civilians detained during recent protests.

A spokesman for the Chinland Defence Force, a newly formed militia, said it was behind the latest fighting and confirmed the authenticity of the document.

"They (the junta) can no longer rule the city except in some areas where they have bases. They have no control in the rural areas," said the spokesman, who said that one fighter from the force was killed and that clashes were continuing with the army bringing in reinforcements.

A spokesman for the junta could not immediately be reached for comment.

In a further sign of continuing defiance of military rule, video on social media showed pro-democracy supporters chanting "We believe that we gonna win, we must win, we must win" as they marched in&nbsp;Myanmar's commercial hub of Yangon on Friday.

With 788 people killed in a brutal suppression of protests by security forces, according to an advocacy group, some supporters of the ousted government have sought military training with insurgents that have battled the military for decades in border regions.

Reuters is unable to independently verify casualties and the military has imposed restrictions on the media, internet services and satellite broadcasts.

Fighting has intensified in some border areas since the Feb. 1 coup, with ethnic militias stepping up attacks, overrunning military posts and downing a military helicopter.

Formed a week ago by the National Unity Government opposed to the generals, a group called the People's Defence Forces has enlisted support from ethnic armed groups that have long regarded Mynamar's military as their greatest foe.

Called to arms since the coup, their fighters have ambushed security forces and assassinated junta-appointed administrators.

Myanmar's junta has declared martial law in a town in Chin State after blaming "armed terrorists" for attacks on a police station and a bank, state media reported on Friday, amid an upsurge in fighting between the military and ethnic rebels in border areas.

Myanmar's junta has declared martial law in a town in Chin State after blaming "armed terrorists" for attacks on a police station and a bank, state media reported on Friday, amid an upsurge in fighting between the military and ethnic rebels in border areas. In the face of widespread opposition, the junta has struggled to retain order amid daily protests in cities and fighting in border states since overthrowing elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi to end tentative steps towards democracy. The unrest in the town of Mindat on Wednesday and Thursday involved about 100 people using homemade guns to attack a police station and about 50 targeting the Myanmar Economic Bank, the state Myanmar News Agency reported. It said that the security forces had repelled the attack without suffering any casualties. A document declaring the imposition of martial law in the town in Chin State, which borders India, was posted in The Global New Light of Myanmar, a state newspaper. Reuters could not independently confirm the state media reports on the situation in Mindat. But a document posted on social media by local media claiming to be from a rival anti-junta administration in the Mindat area said the declaration of martial law was invalid. It also said that the fighting was triggered by the army breaking a promise to release seven civilians detained during recent protests. A spokesman for the Chinland Defence Force, a newly formed militia, said it was behind the latest fighting and confirmed the authenticity of the document. "They (the junta) can no longer rule the city except in some areas where they have bases. They have no control in the rural areas," said the spokesman, who said that one fighter from the force was killed and that clashes were continuing with the army bringing in reinforcements. A spokesman for the junta could not immediately be reached for comment. In a further sign of continuing defiance of military rule, video on social media showed pro-democracy supporters chanting "We believe that we gonna win, we must win, we must win" as they marched in Myanmar's commercial hub of Yangon on Friday. With 788 people killed in a brutal suppression of protests by security forces, according to an advocacy group, some supporters of the ousted government have sought military training with insurgents that have battled the military for decades in border regions. Reuters is unable to independently verify casualties and the military has imposed restrictions on the media, internet services and satellite broadcasts. Fighting has intensified in some border areas since the Feb. 1 coup, with ethnic militias stepping up attacks, overrunning military posts and downing a military helicopter. Formed a week ago by the National Unity Government opposed to the generals, a group called the People's Defence Forces has enlisted support from ethnic armed groups that have long regarded Mynamar's military as their greatest foe. Called to arms since the coup, their fighters have ambushed security forces and assassinated junta-appointed administrators.

Myanmar junta declares martial law in town after attacks on bank, police

Beaten, kicked in the groin and threatened with sexual violence - a young&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;teenager detained by the junta's security forces has described the treatment suffered by some women and girls behind bars.

Ma Chaw, 17, and her mother were arrested on April 14 in Yangon,&nbsp;Myanmar's commercial capital, which has been blanketed with heavy security since the military seized power in a coup.

As they were walking to a friend's house from a morning protest, she said, they were stopped by two security trucks.&nbsp;

"They forced us to crouch face-down on the ground," Ma Chaw told AFP.

The high school student then faced six days of fear and anxiety, held with women who alleged torture and abuse by police behind closed doors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-anti-junta-unity-government-says-it-has-formed-defence-force-383019">Myanmar's anti-junta unity government says it has formed defence force</a>

Ma Chaw said she herself had to endure a police officer molesting her during an interrogation session.

The teenager was released on April 20, but her mother was not as fortunate, she was instead taken to Yangon's Insein prison.

"My mother is my only family," she said.&nbsp;"I'm very worried for her safety and life."

To secure her release, she said, she had to sign documents saying she suffered "no torture" behind bars.

"It's the opposite of what they have done," Ma Chaw said.&nbsp;"It is totally unacceptable and unfair."

Molested, slapped, beaten

Her mother is among more than 3,800 civilians arrested and still languishing behind bars since the February 1 coup, according to local monitoring group the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

Little is known about the conditions of detainees across&nbsp;Myanmar, as those released rarely speak out about it.

Ma Chaw said she and her mother were taken first to a local police station where they were questioned separately.

"I was touched by a police officer, who told me he could kill me and make me disappear," she said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thailand-seeking-humanitarian-solution-for-detained-myanmar-journalists-384263">Thailand seeking 'humanitarian' solution for detained Myanmar journalists</a>

&nbsp;

"If I didn't push his hand away, I'm sure he would have continued."

She added that her mother was slapped twice during her interrogation.

The following day, they were taken to a detention centre on Yangon's northern outskirts where they met other women, some of whom had bruises all over their bodies.

One of them, a woman who had been in a relationship with a foreigner, was beaten so badly she could barely talk or eat, Ma Chaw said.

"We had to feed her fried egg and rice," she said. "She told us she couldn't urinate because her women parts had been kicked during the interrogation."

The National Unity Government, an underground group of ousted lawmakers opposing the junta, has announced it is investigating the "allegations of sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls in unlawful detention".

"These cases are indicative of the wider pattern of sexual and gender-based violence committed by&nbsp;Myanmar's military that has persisted for years with impunity, particularly against ethnic minority women and girls in armed conflict areas," it said in a statement.

Threatened disappearances

Another woman held in the same detention centre as Ma Chaw recalled similar experiences.&nbsp;Both women have been given pseudonyms because of the sensitivity of their allegations.

Ngwe Thanzin told AFP she and four others were protesting in Yangon's South Okkalapa township when they were arrested.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-declares-martial-law-in-town-after-attacks-on-bank-police-384978">Myanmar junta declares martial law in town after attacks on bank, police</a>

"I was kicked in my face for having a black mask in my bag," she said, adding that security forces also yelled misogynistic abuse at them.

The women were then taken to the same detention centre as Ma Chaw, where Ngwe Thanzin said she was handcuffed so tightly it left marks on her wrists.

"They also threatened us saying they could kill us and make us disappear without anyone knowing it," she told AFP.

During her three-night detention, she said she saw a 19-year-old girl bruised so badly she could barely stand.

"They don't beat or torture in front of other people. But when people were individually interrogated, they came out with bruises."

AFP was unable to independently verify the allegations made by Ma Chaw and Ngwe Thanzin.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-may-target-free-speech-in-effort-to-stifle-protests-363394">Myanmar may target free speech in effort to stifle protests</a>

Repeated attempts to contact the junta spokesman for a response went unanswered.

And junta-appointed Minister of Social Welfare Thet Thet Khine, who chairs a National Committee on Prevention and Response to Sexual Violence in Conflict, could not be reached for comment.&nbsp;

Ngwe Thanzin said the least the junta could do was have female security personnel available to interrogate them, instead of men.

"All our rights and dignity were violated and abused," she said.

"Since we have no rights, I felt we were like water in their hands."

Beaten, kicked in the groin and threatened with sexual violence - a young Myanmar teenager detained by the junta's security forces has described the treatment suffered by some women and girls behind bars.

Beaten, kicked in the groin and threatened with sexual violence - a young Myanmar teenager detained by the junta's security forces has described the treatment suffered by some women and girls behind bars. Ma Chaw, 17, and her mother were arrested on April 14 in Yangon, Myanmar's commercial capital, which has been blanketed with heavy security since the military seized power in a coup. As they were walking to a friend's house from a morning protest, she said, they were stopped by two security trucks. "They forced us to crouch face-down on the ground," Ma Chaw told AFP. The high school student then faced six days of fear and anxiety, held with women who alleged torture and abuse by police behind closed doors. Also read | Myanmar's anti-junta unity government says it has formed defence force Ma Chaw said she herself had to endure a police officer molesting her during an interrogation session. The teenager was released on April 20, but her mother was not as fortunate, she was instead taken to Yangon's Insein prison. "My mother is my only family," she said. "I'm very worried for her safety and life." To secure her release, she said, she had to sign documents saying she suffered "no torture" behind bars. "It's the opposite of what they have done," Ma Chaw said. "It is totally unacceptable and unfair." Molested, slapped, beaten Her mother is among more than 3,800 civilians arrested and still languishing behind bars since the February 1 coup, according to local monitoring group the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners. Little is known about the conditions of detainees across Myanmar, as those released rarely speak out about it. Ma Chaw said she and her mother were taken first to a local police station where they were questioned separately. "I was touched by a police officer, who told me he could kill me and make me disappear," she said. Also read | Thailand seeking 'humanitarian' solution for detained Myanmar journalists "If I didn't push his hand away, I'm sure he would have continued." She added that her mother was slapped twice during her interrogation. The following day, they were taken to a detention centre on Yangon's northern outskirts where they met other women, some of whom had bruises all over their bodies. One of them, a woman who had been in a relationship with a foreigner, was beaten so badly she could barely talk or eat, Ma Chaw said. "We had to feed her fried egg and rice," she said. "She told us she couldn't urinate because her women parts had been kicked during the interrogation." The National Unity Government, an underground group of ousted lawmakers opposing the junta, has announced it is investigating the "allegations of sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls in unlawful detention". "These cases are indicative of the wider pattern of sexual and gender-based violence committed by Myanmar's military that has persisted for years with impunity, particularly against ethnic minority women and girls in armed conflict areas," it said in a statement. Threatened disappearances Another woman held in the same detention centre as Ma Chaw recalled similar experiences. Both women have been given pseudonyms because of the sensitivity of their allegations. Ngwe Thanzin told AFP she and four others were protesting in Yangon's South Okkalapa township when they were arrested. Also read | Myanmar junta declares martial law in town after attacks on bank, police "I was kicked in my face for having a black mask in my bag," she said, adding that security forces also yelled misogynistic abuse at them. The women were then taken to the same detention centre as Ma Chaw, where Ngwe Thanzin said she was handcuffed so tightly it left marks on her wrists. "They also threatened us saying they could kill us and make us disappear without anyone knowing it," she told AFP. During her three-night detention, she said she saw a 19-year-old girl bruised so badly she could barely stand. "They don't beat or torture in front of other people. But when people were individually interrogated, they came out with bruises." AFP was unable to independently verify the allegations made by Ma Chaw and Ngwe Thanzin. Also read | Myanmar may target free speech in effort to stifle protests Repeated attempts to contact the junta spokesman for a response went unanswered. And junta-appointed Minister of Social Welfare Thet Thet Khine, who chairs a National Committee on Prevention and Response to Sexual Violence in Conflict, could not be reached for comment. Ngwe Thanzin said the least the junta could do was have female security personnel available to interrogate them, instead of men. "All our rights and dignity were violated and abused," she said. "Since we have no rights, I felt we were like water in their hands."

Kicked in the groin: Myanmar teen describes junta's brutal treatment of detained women

Myanmar`s National Unity Government, set up by opponents of army rule, said on Wednesday it had formed a "people`s defence force" to protect its supporters from military attacks and violence instigated by the junta.

Since the military seized power and ousted an elected government led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi on February&nbsp;1, there have been daily protests and a surge of violence with security forces killing hundreds of civilians.

The National Unity Government said in a statement the new force was a precursor to a Federal Union Army and that it had a responsibility to "make effective reforms in the security sector in order to terminate the 70-year long civil war".

It also said it has a responsibility to deal with "the military attacks and violence from state administration council on the people”.

The unity government, established last month by an array of groups opposed to the junta, has pledged to end violence, restore democracy and build a "federal democratic union".

A spokesman for the junta did not answer a call seeking comment.

Myanmar was ruled by the military for nearly half a century from 1962 before the generals launched a tentative transition to democracy a decade ago.

That process was brought to a halt by the coup, to the anger of many people unwilling to put up with another phase of military rule.

The National Unity Government did not provide details of how the new force would be organised or armed, or how it would try to achieve its objectives. A spokesman for the unity government was not immediately available for comment.

Myanmar`s well-equipped army is one of the region`s most battle-hardened forces.

But despite that, opponents of the coup have in some places been using crude weapons to fight troops while others have sought training with ethnic minority insurgents who have been battling the military since independence in 1948 from remote border areas.

Myanmar has in recent weeks seen an increasing number of small blasts in cities and towns, some targeting government offices and military facilities.

There have been no claims of responsibility but the military has blamed people bent on destabilising the country.

Five people killed in an explosion this week, including a former member of parliament for Suu Kyi`s party, had been building a bomb, the state controlled Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported.

The newspaper said security forces had searched the scene of the Monday afternoon blast in the central Bago area and found wire, batteries and a damaged phone and phone parts.

The newspaper said the explosion of the "home-made mine" killed four men on the spot including a member of Suu Kyi`s National League for Democracy (NLD) while another man died of his injuries in hospital.

A spokesman for the NLD was not available for comment. Suu Kyi, 75, has been detained since the coup along with many members of her party.

The junta said it had to seize power because its complaints of fraud in a November election won by Suu Kyi`s party were not addressed by an election commission that deemed the vote fair.

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) rights monitoring group says security forces have killed 766 people since the coup.

The junta disputes the AAPP figure and has banned the group. It acknowledged 248 deaths in mid-April and in addition says 24 police and soldiers have been killed in the protests.

Reuters is unable to verify casualties because of curbs placed on media by the junta. Many journalists areamong the thousands of people who have been detained.

The independent Tachileik news agency based in Shan State in the northeast said on Facebook its licence had been revoked, the latest of eight such news outlets to be shut under orders of the authorities.

Junta-controlled MRTV state television announced on Tuesday a ban on satellite television receivers, saying outside broadcasts threatened national security. It said anyone caught violating the ban risked jail.

With mobile internet access largely cut off in a bid to quell the anti-junta protests, Myanmar has increasingly appeared headed back to a state of isolation that preceded a decade of democratic reforms.

Myanmar`s National Unity Government, set up by opponents of army rule, said on Wednesday it had formed a "people`s defence force" to protect its supporters from military attacks and violence instigated by the junta.

Myanmar`s National Unity Government, set up by opponents of army rule, said on Wednesday it had formed a "people`s defence force" to protect its supporters from military attacks and violence instigated by the junta. Since the military seized power and ousted an elected government led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1, there have been daily protests and a surge of violence with security forces killing hundreds of civilians. The National Unity Government said in a statement the new force was a precursor to a Federal Union Army and that it had a responsibility to "make effective reforms in the security sector in order to terminate the 70-year long civil war". It also said it has a responsibility to deal with "the military attacks and violence from state administration council on the people”. The unity government, established last month by an array of groups opposed to the junta, has pledged to end violence, restore democracy and build a "federal democratic union". A spokesman for the junta did not answer a call seeking comment. Myanmar was ruled by the military for nearly half a century from 1962 before the generals launched a tentative transition to democracy a decade ago. That process was brought to a halt by the coup, to the anger of many people unwilling to put up with another phase of military rule. The National Unity Government did not provide details of how the new force would be organised or armed, or how it would try to achieve its objectives. A spokesman for the unity government was not immediately available for comment. Myanmar`s well-equipped army is one of the region`s most battle-hardened forces. But despite that, opponents of the coup have in some places been using crude weapons to fight troops while others have sought training with ethnic minority insurgents who have been battling the military since independence in 1948 from remote border areas. Myanmar has in recent weeks seen an increasing number of small blasts in cities and towns, some targeting government offices and military facilities. There have been no claims of responsibility but the military has blamed people bent on destabilising the country. Five people killed in an explosion this week, including a former member of parliament for Suu Kyi`s party, had been building a bomb, the state controlled Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported. The newspaper said security forces had searched the scene of the Monday afternoon blast in the central Bago area and found wire, batteries and a damaged phone and phone parts. The newspaper said the explosion of the "home-made mine" killed four men on the spot including a member of Suu Kyi`s National League for Democracy (NLD) while another man died of his injuries in hospital. A spokesman for the NLD was not available for comment. Suu Kyi, 75, has been detained since the coup along with many members of her party. The junta said it had to seize power because its complaints of fraud in a November election won by Suu Kyi`s party were not addressed by an election commission that deemed the vote fair. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) rights monitoring group says security forces have killed 766 people since the coup. The junta disputes the AAPP figure and has banned the group. It acknowledged 248 deaths in mid-April and in addition says 24 police and soldiers have been killed in the protests. Reuters is unable to verify casualties because of curbs placed on media by the junta. Many journalists areamong the thousands of people who have been detained. The independent Tachileik news agency based in Shan State in the northeast said on Facebook its licence had been revoked, the latest of eight such news outlets to be shut under orders of the authorities. Junta-controlled MRTV state television announced on Tuesday a ban on satellite television receivers, saying outside broadcasts threatened national security. It said anyone caught violating the ban risked jail. With mobile internet access largely cut off in a bid to quell the anti-junta protests, Myanmar has increasingly appeared headed back to a state of isolation that preceded a decade of democratic reforms.

Myanmar's anti-junta unity government says it has formed defence force

A Japanese journalist detained in Myanmar last month has been charged with spreading false news, an official at the Japanese embassy in Yangon said on Tuesday, amid a crackdown on media since the military seized power three months ago.

Yuki Kitazumi, who had been picked up from his home by troops and taken into custody on April 19, is the first foreign journalist to be charged since the military ousted the elected government of Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.

Kitazumi, who was being held at Insein Prison in Yangon, has been charged under section 505A of the penal code, which criminalises comments that could cause fear or spread false news and is punishable by up to three years in jail.

The Myanmar authorities have not supplied information on the details of the alleged offences, said a Japanese embassy official, who declined to be named.

A spokesman for the junta did not respond to calls asking for comment.

Kitazumi runs a media production company, Yangon Media Professionals, and used to be a journalist with the Nikkei business daily, according to his Facebook page and interviews with online media.

He was arrested previously in February while covering protests against the February&nbsp;1 coup but was released soon afterwards.

According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group, 766 people have been killed by security forces since the coup and more than 3,600 remain in detention, including Suu Kyi.

Both the Japanese government and Japanese journalists have called for his release.

A Japanese journalist detained in Myanmar last month has been charged with spreading false news, an official at the Japanese embassy in Yangon said on Tuesday, amid a crackdown on media since the military seized power three months ago.

A Japanese journalist detained in Myanmar last month has been charged with spreading false news, an official at the Japanese embassy in Yangon said on Tuesday, amid a crackdown on media since the military seized power three months ago. Yuki Kitazumi, who had been picked up from his home by troops and taken into custody on April 19, is the first foreign journalist to be charged since the military ousted the elected government of Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Kitazumi, who was being held at Insein Prison in Yangon, has been charged under section 505A of the penal code, which criminalises comments that could cause fear or spread false news and is punishable by up to three years in jail. The Myanmar authorities have not supplied information on the details of the alleged offences, said a Japanese embassy official, who declined to be named. A spokesman for the junta did not respond to calls asking for comment. Kitazumi runs a media production company, Yangon Media Professionals, and used to be a journalist with the Nikkei business daily, according to his Facebook page and interviews with online media. He was arrested previously in February while covering protests against the February 1 coup but was released soon afterwards. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group, 766 people have been killed by security forces since the coup and more than 3,600 remain in detention, including Suu Kyi. Both the Japanese government and Japanese journalists have called for his release.

Japanese journalist charged in Myanmar for spreading false news

Myanmar's military cracked down on anti-coup protesters on Saturday, killing at least one according to a witness, as the junta leader sat down with heads of states in a regional summit over the violence.

The country has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup, triggering a mass uprising from all corners of Myanmar society demanding a return to democracy.&nbsp;

Watch |

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Cities, rural areas, remote mountainous regions and even the rebel-ruled territories along Myanmar's borders have erupted in dissent, protesting near-daily for the military to step down.

While Western powers have imposed targeted sanctions on military top brass, regional leaders from the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations have sought to open a communications channel with the junta.&nbsp;

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing took part in a high-level summit Saturday in Jakarta to discuss Myanmar's mounting crisis -- his first overseas trip since he seized power.&nbsp;

But across Myanmar Saturday, protesters persisted in taking to the streets —&nbsp;angered by ASEAN's invitation to the junta regime.&nbsp;

A demonstration on motorbikes where protesters flashed the three-finger salute of resistance as they drove outside Myanmar's capital Naypyidaw turned violent by afternoon when police and soldiers opened fire.

A 50-year-old protester was detained and killed, a witness told AFP.

"Police held him on each side, then a soldier shot him in the back," the 27-year-old protester said, adding that security forces took the man's body.

"We only had the three-finger salute, but they had weapons to take our lives," he said.&nbsp;

"I want to deliver a message to the ASEAN leaders... do not support him (Min Aung Hlaing)."

Saturday's violence adds to the more than 740 people killed since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

Clashes between the military and ethnic rebel groups with territory along Myanmar's eastern and western borders have also ramped up in recent weeks.

Among the most vocal opponents of the coup is the Karen National Union (KNU), who are sheltering dissidents and activists in their territory along the Thai-Myanmar border.&nbsp;

On Friday night, two people in the southern city of Thaton were killed in crossfire between the military and the KNU, a resident told AFP.

"No one dared to retrieve the two dead bodies last night, and the people went to take them this morning," said the resident, who blamed the military for the shooting.

The KNU's head of foreign affairs Padoh Saw Taw Nee said the fighting had killed at least one civilian.

He added that another "small clash" occurred Saturday morning along the Salween river, which serves as a border between Thailand and Myanmar.

In March the military launched airstrikes into the KNU's territory, displacing thousands of civilians from their homes -- some of whom crossed into Thailand briefly for refuge.

Myanmar's military cracked down on anti-coup protesters on Saturday, killing at least one according to a witness, as the junta leader sat down with heads of states in a regional summit over the violence.

Myanmar's military cracked down on anti-coup protesters on Saturday, killing at least one according to a witness, as the junta leader sat down with heads of states in a regional summit over the violence. The country has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup, triggering a mass uprising from all corners of Myanmar society demanding a return to democracy. Watch | Cities, rural areas, remote mountainous regions and even the rebel-ruled territories along Myanmar's borders have erupted in dissent, protesting near-daily for the military to step down. While Western powers have imposed targeted sanctions on military top brass, regional leaders from the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations have sought to open a communications channel with the junta. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing took part in a high-level summit Saturday in Jakarta to discuss Myanmar's mounting crisis -- his first overseas trip since he seized power. But across Myanmar Saturday, protesters persisted in taking to the streets — angered by ASEAN's invitation to the junta regime. A demonstration on motorbikes where protesters flashed the three-finger salute of resistance as they drove outside Myanmar's capital Naypyidaw turned violent by afternoon when police and soldiers opened fire. A 50-year-old protester was detained and killed, a witness told AFP. "Police held him on each side, then a soldier shot him in the back," the 27-year-old protester said, adding that security forces took the man's body. "We only had the three-finger salute, but they had weapons to take our lives," he said. "I want to deliver a message to the ASEAN leaders... do not support him (Min Aung Hlaing)." Saturday's violence adds to the more than 740 people killed since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. Clashes between the military and ethnic rebel groups with territory along Myanmar's eastern and western borders have also ramped up in recent weeks. Among the most vocal opponents of the coup is the Karen National Union (KNU), who are sheltering dissidents and activists in their territory along the Thai-Myanmar border. On Friday night, two people in the southern city of Thaton were killed in crossfire between the military and the KNU, a resident told AFP. "No one dared to retrieve the two dead bodies last night, and the people went to take them this morning," said the resident, who blamed the military for the shooting. The KNU's head of foreign affairs Padoh Saw Taw Nee said the fighting had killed at least one civilian. He added that another "small clash" occurred Saturday morning along the Salween river, which serves as a border between Thailand and Myanmar. In March the military launched airstrikes into the KNU's territory, displacing thousands of civilians from their homes -- some of whom crossed into Thailand briefly for refuge.

Myanmar military cracks down on protesters as junta leader in summit

Amnesty International urged Southeast Asian nations on Friday to investigate&nbsp;Myanmar's junta leader for crimes against humanity amid reports that he will attend a regional summit on the crisis in his country this week.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit is to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing,&nbsp;Myanmar's junta chief who ousted the civilian government on February&nbsp;1, is likely to attend, diplomats and officials in the host nation have said.

Authorities in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;have not commented on the reports.

"As a state party to the UN Convention Against Torture, Indonesia has a legal obligation to prosecute or extradite a suspected perpetrator on its territory," Amnesty said in a statement.

The meeting is the first concerted international effort to ease the crisis in&nbsp;Myanmar, where security forces have killed hundreds of pro-democracy protesters since the February coup.

It is also a test for ASEAN, which traditionally does not interfere in the internal affairs of a member state and operates by consensus.

"The&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;crisis trigged by the military presents ASEAN with the biggest test in its history," Emerlynne Gil, Amnesty’s Deputy Regional Director for Research, said in the statement.

"The bloc's usual commitment to non-interference is a non-starter: this is not an internal matter for&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;but a major human rights and humanitarian crisis which is impacting the entire region and beyond."

A grouping of 45 Southeast Asian non-governmental organisations said the invitation to Min Aung Hlaing to attend the summit "provides legitimacy...to the genocidal slaughter being committed by the military regime against its own citizens and people".

It urged ASEAN leaders to include&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;lawmakers ousted by the military to attend the Jakarta meeting.

"ASEAN leaders will not be able to achieve anything at this summit to solve the current crisis without consulting and negotiating with the rightful representatives of the peoples of&nbsp;Myanmar," the NGOs said in a letter published on social media.

ASEAN's members include&nbsp;Myanmar, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Myanmar's military has shown no sign of wanting to talk to members of the government it ousted, accusing some of them of treason, which is punishable by death.

The foreign minister of China,&nbsp;Myanmar's giant neighbour and which many protesters say supports the junta, said he hoped the summit would pave the way for a "soft landing".

China is not a member of ASEAN, but is included in an ASEAN Plus Three grouping, along with Japan and South Korea. It was not immediately clear whether China will be attending Saturday's meeting in Jakarta.

"China will maintain close communication with ASEAN, and continue to handle any work related to&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;in its own way," said China's State Councillor Wang Yi, who is also foreign minister.

Last week,&nbsp;Myanmar's pro-democracy politicians, including ousted members of parliament, announced the formation of a National Unity Government that nominally includes deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been in detention since the coup, as well as leaders of the protests and ethnic minorities.

The junta has called it an unlawful organisation.

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;activist group, says 739 people have been killed by security forces since the coup and 3,300 people are in detention.

Amnesty International urged Southeast Asian nations on Friday to investigate Myanmar's junta leader for crimes against humanity amid reports that he will attend a regional summit on the crisis in his country this week.

Amnesty International urged Southeast Asian nations on Friday to investigate Myanmar's junta leader for crimes against humanity amid reports that he will attend a regional summit on the crisis in his country this week. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit is to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar's junta chief who ousted the civilian government on February 1, is likely to attend, diplomats and officials in the host nation have said. Authorities in Myanmar have not commented on the reports. "As a state party to the UN Convention Against Torture, Indonesia has a legal obligation to prosecute or extradite a suspected perpetrator on its territory," Amnesty said in a statement. The meeting is the first concerted international effort to ease the crisis in Myanmar, where security forces have killed hundreds of pro-democracy protesters since the February coup. It is also a test for ASEAN, which traditionally does not interfere in the internal affairs of a member state and operates by consensus. "The Myanmar crisis trigged by the military presents ASEAN with the biggest test in its history," Emerlynne Gil, Amnesty’s Deputy Regional Director for Research, said in the statement. "The bloc's usual commitment to non-interference is a non-starter: this is not an internal matter for Myanmar but a major human rights and humanitarian crisis which is impacting the entire region and beyond." A grouping of 45 Southeast Asian non-governmental organisations said the invitation to Min Aung Hlaing to attend the summit "provides legitimacy...to the genocidal slaughter being committed by the military regime against its own citizens and people". It urged ASEAN leaders to include Myanmar lawmakers ousted by the military to attend the Jakarta meeting. "ASEAN leaders will not be able to achieve anything at this summit to solve the current crisis without consulting and negotiating with the rightful representatives of the peoples of Myanmar," the NGOs said in a letter published on social media. ASEAN's members include Myanmar, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Myanmar's military has shown no sign of wanting to talk to members of the government it ousted, accusing some of them of treason, which is punishable by death. The foreign minister of China, Myanmar's giant neighbour and which many protesters say supports the junta, said he hoped the summit would pave the way for a "soft landing". China is not a member of ASEAN, but is included in an ASEAN Plus Three grouping, along with Japan and South Korea. It was not immediately clear whether China will be attending Saturday's meeting in Jakarta. "China will maintain close communication with ASEAN, and continue to handle any work related to Myanmar in its own way," said China's State Councillor Wang Yi, who is also foreign minister. Last week, Myanmar's pro-democracy politicians, including ousted members of parliament, announced the formation of a National Unity Government that nominally includes deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been in detention since the coup, as well as leaders of the protests and ethnic minorities. The junta has called it an unlawful organisation. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a Myanmar activist group, says 739 people have been killed by security forces since the coup and 3,300 people are in detention.

Ahead of regional summit on Myanmar, Amnesty urges probe of junta chief

The European Union announced sanctions on 10 Myanmar junta officials and two conglomerates linked to the military over the coup and bloody crackdown on protesters in their country.

EU sanctions 10 Myanmar junta officials, 2 firms

A monintoring group called for international action after Myanmar's military junta aired images of anti-coup protesters that appeared to show them having been tortured and bruised.

The images were tweeted by The Asistancce Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), a human rights organisation working to secure the release of prisoners in the country.

"Emboldened through impunity. This junta uses torture as its policy. AAPP is concerned for all those detained particularly in undisclosed locations If international community does not act. Torture, and to death, will clearly continue," AAPP said in a tweet.

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Emboldened through impunity 
 
This junta uses torture as its policy 
 
AAPP is concerned for all those detained particularly in undisclosed locations 
 
If international community does not act. Torture, and to death, will clearly continue <a href="https://t.co/6pGU3tSVT3">pic.twitter.com/6pGU3tSVT3</a>
— AAPP (Burma) (@aapp_burma) <a href="https://twitter.com/aapp_burma/status/1383843295088898058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to AAPP, as of Sunday, 3,229 protesters have been&nbsp;detained or sentenced, and&nbsp;930 have been issued arrest warrants. The monitoring group said&nbsp;737 people have been killed since the coup ousted the government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in February.

Images carried on Sunday by&nbsp;junta-owned MRTV showed six detainees, including two women. Their faces appeared&nbsp;engorged, bloodied or bruised.&nbsp;The jaw of one of the women was swollen and she appeared to have a black eye.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Myanmar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Myanmar</a>’s military screened the pictures on the right - young women they had detained, bearing harrowing signs of abuse - on the nightly news today. They fact they felt free to show these images - and wanted to - speaks volumes. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhatsHappeningInMyanmar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhatsHappeningInMyanmar</a> <a href="https://t.co/lt5CeNc06B">pic.twitter.com/lt5CeNc06B</a>
— Poppy McPherson (@poppymcp) <a href="https://twitter.com/poppymcp/status/1383836051551121424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The MRTV report said the protesters were&nbsp;arrested on Sunday in Yankin, a suburb of Yangon, the country's biggest city.

Kim Jolliffe, a researcher on Myanmar, said in a tweet: "The Myanmar&nbsp;junta's strategy from start to finish is based on the same gambit: "We can be more brutal than you... We can be more shockingly hurtful and terrifying than you" That is all they have. But it knows no bounds."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A monintoring group called for international action after Myanmar's military junta aired images of anti-coup protesters that appeared to show them having been tortured and bruised.

A monintoring group called for international action after Myanmar's military junta aired images of anti-coup protesters that appeared to show them having been tortured and bruised. The images were tweeted by The Asistancce Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), a human rights organisation working to secure the release of prisoners in the country. "Emboldened through impunity. This junta uses torture as its policy. AAPP is concerned for all those detained particularly in undisclosed locations If international community does not act. Torture, and to death, will clearly continue," AAPP said in a tweet. Emboldened through impunity This junta uses torture as its policy AAPP is concerned for all those detained particularly in undisclosed locations If international community does not act. Torture, and to death, will clearly continue pic.twitter.com/6pGU3tSVT3 — AAPP (Burma) (@aapp_burma) April 18, 2021 × According to AAPP, as of Sunday, 3,229 protesters have been detained or sentenced, and 930 have been issued arrest warrants. The monitoring group said 737 people have been killed since the coup ousted the government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in February. Images carried on Sunday by junta-owned MRTV showed six detainees, including two women. Their faces appeared engorged, bloodied or bruised. The jaw of one of the women was swollen and she appeared to have a black eye. #Myanmar’s military screened the pictures on the right - young women they had detained, bearing harrowing signs of abuse - on the nightly news today. They fact they felt free to show these images - and wanted to - speaks volumes. #WhatsHappeningInMyanmar pic.twitter.com/lt5CeNc06B — Poppy McPherson (@poppymcp) April 18, 2021 × The MRTV report said the protesters were arrested on Sunday in Yankin, a suburb of Yangon, the country's biggest city. Kim Jolliffe, a researcher on Myanmar, said in a tweet: "The Myanmar junta's strategy from start to finish is based on the same gambit: "We can be more brutal than you... We can be more shockingly hurtful and terrifying than you" That is all they have. But it knows no bounds." (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military TV shows bruised protesters, leading to outcry

The junta is planning to release more than 23,000 prisoners nationwide, an official said Saturday, even as the military continues to detain and issue arrest warrants for anti-coup dissidents.

Myanmar typically grants an annual amnesty to thousands of prisoners to mark its traditional Buddhist New Year holiday — which in previous years have been joyous affairs with city-wide water fights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-junta-leader-to-attend-asean-summit-378185">Myanmar military junta leader to attend ASEAN summit</a>

But this year, with the military back in power after ousting civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, anti-coup activists have used the holiday as an opportunity to protest the growing death toll and mass arrests.

It remains unclear whether anti-junta protesters or journalists jailed covering the coup will be among those freed.

A prison official told AFP on condition of anonymity that jails across the country will start freeing more than 23,000 people on Saturday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/opponents-of-myanmar-coup-announce-unity-government-377962" hreflang="en">Opponents of Myanmar coup announce unity government</a>

"We will release more than 800 prisoners from Insein prison" in commercial hub Yangon, he added, declining to elaborate.

In February, the junta released a similar number of prisoners, with some rights groups at the time fearing the move was to free up space for opponents of the military as well as cause chaos in communities. &nbsp;

On Wednesday a rebel group executed a man who had been freed in that amnesty, who it said had subsequently raped and killed a five-year-old girl.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-shoots-at-protesting-medical-workers-377805" hreflang="en">Myanmar military shoots at protesting medical workers</a>

Just before Armed Forces Day, the regime also freed around 900 jailed demonstrators.

But since the February 1 coup, more than 3,100 people — the bulk of them anti-coup protesters and activists — have been detained, according to local monitoring group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

The junta has issued nightly arrest warrants on state-run media, targeting celebrities, influencers, journalists and prominent activists with large social media followings.

By Friday night, they totalled 380.

Some 80 doctors have also been named as wanted fugitives for attempting to "deteriorate peace and stability".

Myanmar's healthcare workers have been at the forefront of a nationwide civil disobedience movement, refusing to return to work under a military regime. Their absence has left many of the country's hospitals unstaffed during the pandemic.

The country has been under the junta's control for 11 weeks.

The military has consistently justified the putsch by alleging widespread fraud in November's elections, which Suu Kyi's party had won in a landslide.

The junta is planning to release more than 23,000 prisoners nationwide, an official said Saturday, even as the military continues to detain and issue arrest warrants for anti-coup dissidents.

The junta is planning to release more than 23,000 prisoners nationwide, an official said Saturday, even as the military continues to detain and issue arrest warrants for anti-coup dissidents. Myanmar typically grants an annual amnesty to thousands of prisoners to mark its traditional Buddhist New Year holiday — which in previous years have been joyous affairs with city-wide water fights. Also read | Myanmar military junta leader to attend ASEAN summit But this year, with the military back in power after ousting civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, anti-coup activists have used the holiday as an opportunity to protest the growing death toll and mass arrests. It remains unclear whether anti-junta protesters or journalists jailed covering the coup will be among those freed. A prison official told AFP on condition of anonymity that jails across the country will start freeing more than 23,000 people on Saturday. Also read | Opponents of Myanmar coup announce unity government "We will release more than 800 prisoners from Insein prison" in commercial hub Yangon, he added, declining to elaborate. In February, the junta released a similar number of prisoners, with some rights groups at the time fearing the move was to free up space for opponents of the military as well as cause chaos in communities. On Wednesday a rebel group executed a man who had been freed in that amnesty, who it said had subsequently raped and killed a five-year-old girl. Also read | Myanmar military shoots at protesting medical workers Just before Armed Forces Day, the regime also freed around 900 jailed demonstrators. But since the February 1 coup, more than 3,100 people — the bulk of them anti-coup protesters and activists — have been detained, according to local monitoring group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners. The junta has issued nightly arrest warrants on state-run media, targeting celebrities, influencers, journalists and prominent activists with large social media followings. By Friday night, they totalled 380. Some 80 doctors have also been named as wanted fugitives for attempting to "deteriorate peace and stability". Myanmar's healthcare workers have been at the forefront of a nationwide civil disobedience movement, refusing to return to work under a military regime. Their absence has left many of the country's hospitals unstaffed during the pandemic. The country has been under the junta's control for 11 weeks. The military has consistently justified the putsch by alleging widespread fraud in November's elections, which Suu Kyi's party had won in a landslide.

Myanmar's junta releases 23,000 prisoners in New Year's amnesty

The Myanmar military has been terrorising civilians since a coup two months earlier. The armed forces of the country have killed more than 700 civilians since the February 1 coup, a human rights group reported over the weekend.&nbsp;

At least 82 people were killed in the city of Bago on Friday during a crackdown against anti-coup protesters.

The actual number of those killed is likely much higher, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), which has been tracking deaths since the coup began.

On records a total of 701 people have been killed, 3,100 people detained, and 650 arrest warrants were issued during the protests.

Myanmar spends twice as much on defence as it does on education and health combined. With half a million soldiers, at least on paper, Myanmar has the world’s 38th strongest military, according to Global Fire Power, which ranks 140 nations on their capability to wage war.

Myanmar's military seized power on February 1 after allegations of rigging during the November 8, 2020 elections and rising political tensions in the country.

The military detained several officials and ruling party leaders, including the country's de facto leader and Foreign Minister, Aung San Suu Kyi, and declared a state of emergency for one year. High-ranking officials in custody are being tried in a military court, as widespread demonstrations continue.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Myanmar military has been terrorising civilians since a coup two months earlier. The armed forces of the country have killed more than 700 civilians since the February 1 coup, a human rights group reported over the weekend.

The Myanmar military has been terrorising civilians since a coup two months earlier. The armed forces of the country have killed more than 700 civilians since the February 1 coup, a human rights group reported over the weekend. At least 82 people were killed in the city of Bago on Friday during a crackdown against anti-coup protesters. The actual number of those killed is likely much higher, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), which has been tracking deaths since the coup began. On records a total of 701 people have been killed, 3,100 people detained, and 650 arrest warrants were issued during the protests. Myanmar spends twice as much on defence as it does on education and health combined. With half a million soldiers, at least on paper, Myanmar has the world’s 38th strongest military, according to Global Fire Power, which ranks 140 nations on their capability to wage war. Myanmar's military seized power on February 1 after allegations of rigging during the November 8, 2020 elections and rising political tensions in the country. The military detained several officials and ruling party leaders, including the country's de facto leader and Foreign Minister, Aung San Suu Kyi, and declared a state of emergency for one year. High-ranking officials in custody are being tried in a military court, as widespread demonstrations continue. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 700 civilians killed by Myanmar junta since coup

The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on a Myanmar state-owned gems enterprise in a bid to curtail the military junta’s ability to generate revenues.

US blacklists Myanmar state-owned gems enterprise

Myanmar troops fired at anti-coup protesters on Wednesday, killing at least 13 people and wounding several, media said, as a series of small blasts hit the commercial capital Yangon and a Chinese-owned factory was set on fire.

The country's military ruler said the civil disobedience movement was "destroying" Myanmar.

More than 580 people have been killed, according to an activist group, in the turmoil in Myanmar since a February&nbsp;1 coup that ended a brief period of civilian-led democracy. Nationwide protests and strikes have persisted since then despite the military's use of lethal force to quell the opposition.

Security forces opened fire on Wednesday on protesters in the northwestern town of Kale as they demanded the restoration of Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government, domestic media said.

A resident of the area and the Myanmar Now news outlet said 11 people were killed and several wounded.

Reuters could not independently verify the toll.

Two protesters were killed in the town of Bago near Yangon, Myanmar Now said.

At least seven small explosions were heard in Yangon, including at government buildings, a military hospital and a shopping mall, residents said. There were no casualties and no claims of responsibility.

The U.S. Embassy in Yangon said it had received reports of "handmade 'sound bombs,' or fireworks meant to create noise and cause minimal damage".

A fire broke out in the Chinese-owned JOC Garment Factory in Yangon on Wednesday, the Fire Department said. There were no reports of casualties and no details on the extent of damage.

In another Yangon neighbourhood, activists set fire to the Chinese flag, according to pictures posted on Facebook.

China is viewed as being supportive of the military junta and last month arson attacks were made on 32 Chinese-invested factories in Yangon.

Details of the blasts and the fire were difficult to obtain because of the junta's curbs on broadband internet and mobile data services.

A spokesman for the junta could not be reached for comment.

'DESTROY THE COUNTRY'

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the junta, said in a statement on Wednesday the civil disobedience movement, or CDM, had halted the working of hospitals, schools, roads, offices and factories.

"Although protests are staged in neighbouring countries and the international community, they do not destroy businesses," he said. "CDM is an activity to destroy the country."

According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) advocacy group, 581 people, including dozens of children, have been shot dead by troops and police in almost daily unrest since the coup, and security forces have arrested close to 3,500 people, with 2,750 still detained.

Among those detained are Suu Kyi and leading figures in her National League for Democracy party, which won an election in November that was anulled by the coup.

The mostly youth-led anti-coup movement's ability to organise campaigns and share information via social media and instant messaging has been hamstrung by the internet curbs.

"Myanmar has been subject to a stepwise collapse into the information abyss since February," Alp Toker, founder of internet blockage observatory NetBlocks, told Reuters.

"Communications are now severely limited and available only to the few."

With print media also halted, protesters have sought other ways to get their message across, producing their own A4-sized daily news pamphlets that are shared digitally and printed for distribution among the public.

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab discussed how Britain and the international community could support a Southeast Asian effort to resolve the crisis in Myanmar, Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said after meeting him in Jakarta.

Indonesia is among several Southeast Asian countries leading a push for high-level talks on Myanmar.

Thailand, Myanmar's neighbour and which has close military ties with the junta, said on Wednesday it did not agree with the violence but the problem had to be addressed carefully.

"We cannot really do what we want because we have shared borders and we need to live and rely on each other on many areas," said Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who had himself seized power in a 2014 coup when army chief, before taking on his current civilian role in 2019.

Fitch Solutions said in a report on Wednesday that targeted Western sanctions alone were unlikely to succeed in restoring democracy. It predicted in the medium-term a violent revolution pitting the military against an armed opposition comprised of members of the anti-coup movement and ethnic militias.

Fitch said Myanmar was heading towards being a failed state.

"The escalating violence on civilians and ethnic militias show that the Tatmadaw (military) is increasingly losing control of the country," it said, adding that the vast majority of people backed Suu Kyi's ousted government.

Myanmar troops fired at anti-coup protesters on Wednesday, killing at least 13 people and wounding several, media said, as a series of small blasts hit the commercial capital Yangon and a Chinese-owned factory was set on fire.

Myanmar troops fired at anti-coup protesters on Wednesday, killing at least 13 people and wounding several, media said, as a series of small blasts hit the commercial capital Yangon and a Chinese-owned factory was set on fire. The country's military ruler said the civil disobedience movement was "destroying" Myanmar. More than 580 people have been killed, according to an activist group, in the turmoil in Myanmar since a February 1 coup that ended a brief period of civilian-led democracy. Nationwide protests and strikes have persisted since then despite the military's use of lethal force to quell the opposition. Security forces opened fire on Wednesday on protesters in the northwestern town of Kale as they demanded the restoration of Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government, domestic media said. A resident of the area and the Myanmar Now news outlet said 11 people were killed and several wounded. Reuters could not independently verify the toll. Two protesters were killed in the town of Bago near Yangon, Myanmar Now said. At least seven small explosions were heard in Yangon, including at government buildings, a military hospital and a shopping mall, residents said. There were no casualties and no claims of responsibility. The U.S. Embassy in Yangon said it had received reports of "handmade 'sound bombs,' or fireworks meant to create noise and cause minimal damage". A fire broke out in the Chinese-owned JOC Garment Factory in Yangon on Wednesday, the Fire Department said. There were no reports of casualties and no details on the extent of damage. In another Yangon neighbourhood, activists set fire to the Chinese flag, according to pictures posted on Facebook. China is viewed as being supportive of the military junta and last month arson attacks were made on 32 Chinese-invested factories in Yangon. Details of the blasts and the fire were difficult to obtain because of the junta's curbs on broadband internet and mobile data services. A spokesman for the junta could not be reached for comment. 'DESTROY THE COUNTRY' Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the junta, said in a statement on Wednesday the civil disobedience movement, or CDM, had halted the working of hospitals, schools, roads, offices and factories. "Although protests are staged in neighbouring countries and the international community, they do not destroy businesses," he said. "CDM is an activity to destroy the country." According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) advocacy group, 581 people, including dozens of children, have been shot dead by troops and police in almost daily unrest since the coup, and security forces have arrested close to 3,500 people, with 2,750 still detained. Among those detained are Suu Kyi and leading figures in her National League for Democracy party, which won an election in November that was anulled by the coup. The mostly youth-led anti-coup movement's ability to organise campaigns and share information via social media and instant messaging has been hamstrung by the internet curbs. "Myanmar has been subject to a stepwise collapse into the information abyss since February," Alp Toker, founder of internet blockage observatory NetBlocks, told Reuters. "Communications are now severely limited and available only to the few." With print media also halted, protesters have sought other ways to get their message across, producing their own A4-sized daily news pamphlets that are shared digitally and printed for distribution among the public. British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab discussed how Britain and the international community could support a Southeast Asian effort to resolve the crisis in Myanmar, Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said after meeting him in Jakarta. Indonesia is among several Southeast Asian countries leading a push for high-level talks on Myanmar. Thailand, Myanmar's neighbour and which has close military ties with the junta, said on Wednesday it did not agree with the violence but the problem had to be addressed carefully. "We cannot really do what we want because we have shared borders and we need to live and rely on each other on many areas," said Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who had himself seized power in a 2014 coup when army chief, before taking on his current civilian role in 2019. Fitch Solutions said in a report on Wednesday that targeted Western sanctions alone were unlikely to succeed in restoring democracy. It predicted in the medium-term a violent revolution pitting the military against an armed opposition comprised of members of the anti-coup movement and ethnic militias. Fitch said Myanmar was heading towards being a failed state. "The escalating violence on civilians and ethnic militias show that the Tatmadaw (military) is increasingly losing control of the country," it said, adding that the vast majority of people backed Suu Kyi's ousted government.

Myanmar security forces kill 13 protesters; small blasts hit Yangon

Myanmar security forces opened fire on pro-democracy protests on Saturday killing four people as the military turned to internet blocks and arrest warrants for online critics in order to end dissent in the country.

One man was shot and killed in the southern town of Thaton, the Bago Weekly Journal online news portal reported. The media outlet earlier reported one person was killed in Bago town but later said the person was wounded by had not died.

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group said on Saturday the security forces have killed 550 people, 46 of them children, since the military overthrew an elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi on February&nbsp;1. There were two deaths on Friday.

Despite the repression, opponents of the coup march every day, and often in nights, in cities and towns across the country, often holding what they call "guerrilla rallies", small, quick shows of defiance before security forces can respond.

The authorities, who had already shut down mobile data in a bid to stifle opposition, ordered internet providers from Friday to cut wireless broadband, depriving most customers of access.

Authorities also issued warrants for 18 show business celebrities including social media influencers and two journalists under a law against material intended to cause a member of the armed forces to mutiny or disregard their duty, state media reported late on Friday.

While the military has banned social media platforms like Facebook, the junta has continued to use social media to track critics and promote its message. MRTV maintains a YouTube channel and shares links to its broadcasts on Twitter, both of which are officially banned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-protesters-urge-guerrilla-strikes-as-internet-blackout-widens-374876">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar protesters urge 'guerrilla strikes' as internet blackout widens</a>

The United States, to this end, has condemned the internet shutdown. "We hope this won’t silence the voices of the people," a State Department spokeswoman, Jalina Porter, told a briefing.

Porter said the shutdown would also have consequences for people who use the internet to benefit from online health programmes.

The security forces have arrested numerous suspected opponents of the coup.

One person was shot and wounded in a raid in the second city of Mandalay on Friday night, the Mizzima news service said. The coup has also rekindled old wars with autonomy-seeking ethnic minority forces in the north and the east.

Myanmar's oldest insurgent group, the Karen National Union (KNU), has seen the first military air strikes on its forces in more than 20 years since announcing its support for the pro-democracy movement.

The KNU said more than 12,000 villagers had fled from their homes because of the air strikes and it called for an international embargo on arms sales to the military.

Media has reported that about 20 people were killed in air strikes in KNU territory in recent days, including nearly a dozen at a gold mine run by the group.

Fighting has also flared in the north between the army and ethnic Kachin insurgents.

(with inputs from agencies)

Myanmar security forces opened fire on pro-democracy protests on Saturday killing four people as the military turned to internet blocks and arrest warrants for online critics in order to end dissent in the country.

Myanmar security forces opened fire on pro-democracy protests on Saturday killing four people as the military turned to internet blocks and arrest warrants for online critics in order to end dissent in the country. One man was shot and killed in the southern town of Thaton, the Bago Weekly Journal online news portal reported. The media outlet earlier reported one person was killed in Bago town but later said the person was wounded by had not died. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group said on Saturday the security forces have killed 550 people, 46 of them children, since the military overthrew an elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. There were two deaths on Friday. Despite the repression, opponents of the coup march every day, and often in nights, in cities and towns across the country, often holding what they call "guerrilla rallies", small, quick shows of defiance before security forces can respond. The authorities, who had already shut down mobile data in a bid to stifle opposition, ordered internet providers from Friday to cut wireless broadband, depriving most customers of access. Authorities also issued warrants for 18 show business celebrities including social media influencers and two journalists under a law against material intended to cause a member of the armed forces to mutiny or disregard their duty, state media reported late on Friday. While the military has banned social media platforms like Facebook, the junta has continued to use social media to track critics and promote its message. MRTV maintains a YouTube channel and shares links to its broadcasts on Twitter, both of which are officially banned. Also read | Myanmar protesters urge 'guerrilla strikes' as internet blackout widens The United States, to this end, has condemned the internet shutdown. "We hope this won’t silence the voices of the people," a State Department spokeswoman, Jalina Porter, told a briefing. Porter said the shutdown would also have consequences for people who use the internet to benefit from online health programmes. The security forces have arrested numerous suspected opponents of the coup. One person was shot and wounded in a raid in the second city of Mandalay on Friday night, the Mizzima news service said. The coup has also rekindled old wars with autonomy-seeking ethnic minority forces in the north and the east. Myanmar's oldest insurgent group, the Karen National Union (KNU), has seen the first military air strikes on its forces in more than 20 years since announcing its support for the pro-democracy movement. The KNU said more than 12,000 villagers had fled from their homes because of the air strikes and it called for an international embargo on arms sales to the military. Media has reported that about 20 people were killed in air strikes in KNU territory in recent days, including nearly a dozen at a gold mine run by the group. Fighting has also flared in the north between the army and ethnic Kachin insurgents. (with inputs from agencies)

Four killed in Myanmar protests as military cracks down on online critics

Myanmar's deposed leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, has been charged with breaking a colonial-era official secrets law, her lawyer said on Thursday, the most serious charge against the veteran opponent of military rule.

Myanmar&nbsp;has been rocked by protests since the army overthrew Suu Kyi's elected government on February&nbsp;1 citing unsubstantiated claims of fraud in a November election that her party swept.

In a new measure to stifle communication about the turmoil, the junta ordered internet service providers to shut down wireless broadband services until further notice, several telecoms sources said.

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Suu Kyi and other members of her National League for Democracy (NLD) have been detained since the coup and the junta had earlier accused her of several minor offences including illegally importing six handheld radios and breaching coronavirus protocols.

Her chief lawyer, Khin Maung Zaw, told Reuters by telephone that Suu Kyi, three of her deposed cabinet ministers and a detained Australian economic adviser, Sean Turnell, were charged a week ago in a Yangon court under the official secrets law, adding he learned of the new charge two days ago.

A conviction under the law can carry a prison sentence of up to 14 years.

A spokesman for the junta did not answer telephone calls seeking comment.

Suu Kyi, who is 75 and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her efforts to bring democracy to&nbsp;Myanmar, appeared via video link for a hearing in connection with the earlier charges on Thursday. Another of her lawyers, Min Min Soe, said she appeared to be in good health.

"Amay Su and President U Win Myint are in good health," the lawyer said, referring to Suu Kyi by an affectionate term for mother. The president, a Suu Kyi ally, was also deposed and detained in the coup. He too faces various charges.

Their lawyers have said the charges against both of them were trumped up.

At least 538 civilians have been killed in protests against the coup, 141 of them on Saturday, the bloodiest day of the unrest, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group.

Protesters were back out in several places on Thursday and two more people were killed, according to media reports, as activists burned copies of a military-framed constitution and called for unity among all those opposed to army rule.

One person was killed and five wounded when the security forces fired in the central town of Monywa, the Monywa Gazette reported.

Security forces also opened fire in the second largest city of Mandalay killing one person, media reported. Shots rang out and black smoke drifted over&nbsp;Myanmar's ancient royal capital.

Police and a spokesman for the military did not answer calls seeking comment.

The suspension of wireless internet connections is likely to cripple communications about the protests in a country where very people few have access to fixed line connections.

'NEW DAY'

The coup has also triggered new clashes in&nbsp;Myanmar's old wars.

At least 20 soldiers were killed and four military trucks destroyed in clashes with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), one of&nbsp;Myanmar's most powerful rebel groups, DVB news reported.

Reuters could not immediately verify the reports and a junta spokesman did not answers calls seeking comment on the clash.

Myanmar&nbsp;military aircraft have started bombing positions of another group, the Karen National Union (KNU), for the first time in more than 20 years and thousands of villagers have fled from their homes, many into Thailand.

The army takeover has led to calls for a united opposition among city-based democracy campaigners and ethnic minority forces battling in frontier regions.

Ousted members of parliament, mostly from Suu Kyi's party, have vowed to set up a federal democracy in a bid to address a long-standing demand from minority groups for autonomy.

They also announced the scrapping of the 2008 constitution drawn up by the military that enshrines its control over politics. The military has long rejected federalism, seeing itself as the central power holding the fractious country together.

Social media posts showed copies of the constitution, real and symbolic, being burned at rallies and in homes.

"The new day begin here!" Dr Sasa, the international envoy for the ousted parliamentarians said on Twitter, referring to what for now is not a change that proponents can make.

Britain's Next on Thursday joined a growing list of European clothing retailers suspending new production orders with factories in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;in the wake of the coup.

Myanmar's deposed leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, has been charged with breaking a colonial-era official secrets law, her lawyer said on Thursday, the most serious charge against the veteran opponent of military rule.

Myanmar's deposed leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, has been charged with breaking a colonial-era official secrets law, her lawyer said on Thursday, the most serious charge against the veteran opponent of military rule. Myanmar has been rocked by protests since the army overthrew Suu Kyi's elected government on February 1 citing unsubstantiated claims of fraud in a November election that her party swept. In a new measure to stifle communication about the turmoil, the junta ordered internet service providers to shut down wireless broadband services until further notice, several telecoms sources said. Suu Kyi and other members of her National League for Democracy (NLD) have been detained since the coup and the junta had earlier accused her of several minor offences including illegally importing six handheld radios and breaching coronavirus protocols. Her chief lawyer, Khin Maung Zaw, told Reuters by telephone that Suu Kyi, three of her deposed cabinet ministers and a detained Australian economic adviser, Sean Turnell, were charged a week ago in a Yangon court under the official secrets law, adding he learned of the new charge two days ago. A conviction under the law can carry a prison sentence of up to 14 years. A spokesman for the junta did not answer telephone calls seeking comment. Suu Kyi, who is 75 and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her efforts to bring democracy to Myanmar, appeared via video link for a hearing in connection with the earlier charges on Thursday. Another of her lawyers, Min Min Soe, said she appeared to be in good health. "Amay Su and President U Win Myint are in good health," the lawyer said, referring to Suu Kyi by an affectionate term for mother. The president, a Suu Kyi ally, was also deposed and detained in the coup. He too faces various charges. Their lawyers have said the charges against both of them were trumped up. At least 538 civilians have been killed in protests against the coup, 141 of them on Saturday, the bloodiest day of the unrest, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group. Protesters were back out in several places on Thursday and two more people were killed, according to media reports, as activists burned copies of a military-framed constitution and called for unity among all those opposed to army rule. One person was killed and five wounded when the security forces fired in the central town of Monywa, the Monywa Gazette reported. Security forces also opened fire in the second largest city of Mandalay killing one person, media reported. Shots rang out and black smoke drifted over Myanmar's ancient royal capital. Police and a spokesman for the military did not answer calls seeking comment. The suspension of wireless internet connections is likely to cripple communications about the protests in a country where very people few have access to fixed line connections. 'NEW DAY' The coup has also triggered new clashes in Myanmar's old wars. At least 20 soldiers were killed and four military trucks destroyed in clashes with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), one of Myanmar's most powerful rebel groups, DVB news reported. Reuters could not immediately verify the reports and a junta spokesman did not answers calls seeking comment on the clash. Myanmar military aircraft have started bombing positions of another group, the Karen National Union (KNU), for the first time in more than 20 years and thousands of villagers have fled from their homes, many into Thailand. The army takeover has led to calls for a united opposition among city-based democracy campaigners and ethnic minority forces battling in frontier regions. Ousted members of parliament, mostly from Suu Kyi's party, have vowed to set up a federal democracy in a bid to address a long-standing demand from minority groups for autonomy. They also announced the scrapping of the 2008 constitution drawn up by the military that enshrines its control over politics. The military has long rejected federalism, seeing itself as the central power holding the fractious country together. Social media posts showed copies of the constitution, real and symbolic, being burned at rallies and in homes. "The new day begin here!" Dr Sasa, the international envoy for the ousted parliamentarians said on Twitter, referring to what for now is not a change that proponents can make. Britain's Next on Thursday joined a growing list of European clothing retailers suspending new production orders with factories in Myanmar in the wake of the coup.

Suu Kyi faces new charge under Myanmar's secrets act; wireless internet suspended

The civil disobedience movement that is continuing to put pressure on the Myanmar junta to give up power has been nominated for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize, a Norwegian academic said on Friday.&nbsp;

Calling it an important "mass mobilisation for democracy", Kristian Stokke, professor of sociology at the University of Oslo told news agency AFP that if the movement turns out to be successful, it would "inspire other non-violent pro-democracy" causes elsewhere.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"The civil disobedience movement is an important mass mobilisation for democracy in Myanmar that is taking place, so far, with non-violent means," the professor said.&nbsp;

"This pro-democracy movement, especially if successful, can also have consequences outside Myanmar and inspire other non-violent pro-democracy movements elsewhere at a time when democracy is under pressure from authoritarian forces."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
As many as 320 people have been killed and about 3,000 detained since the coup ousted the democratically-elected government in Myanmar, according to the Assistance Association of Political Prisoners (AAPP).&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-activists-call-for-anti-coup-protest-as-junta-marks-armed-forces-day-373467">Myanmar activists call for anti-coup protest as junta marks Armed Forces Day</a>

"What is important and gives a glimmer of hope is that what started as a response to a military coup has become a broader alliance across the many differences, especially ethnic ones, within Burmese society," Stokke added.&nbsp;

The Nobel committee only considers January 31 deadline for this year's awards and so the nomination by Stokke will be taken next year.&nbsp;

The civil disobedience movement that is continuing to put pressure on the Myanmar junta to give up power has been nominated for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize, a Norwegian academic said on Friday.

The civil disobedience movement that is continuing to put pressure on the Myanmar junta to give up power has been nominated for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize, a Norwegian academic said on Friday. Calling it an important "mass mobilisation for democracy", Kristian Stokke, professor of sociology at the University of Oslo told news agency AFP that if the movement turns out to be successful, it would "inspire other non-violent pro-democracy" causes elsewhere. Watch | "The civil disobedience movement is an important mass mobilisation for democracy in Myanmar that is taking place, so far, with non-violent means," the professor said. "This pro-democracy movement, especially if successful, can also have consequences outside Myanmar and inspire other non-violent pro-democracy movements elsewhere at a time when democracy is under pressure from authoritarian forces." As many as 320 people have been killed and about 3,000 detained since the coup ousted the democratically-elected government in Myanmar, according to the Assistance Association of Political Prisoners (AAPP). Also read | Myanmar activists call for anti-coup protest as junta marks Armed Forces Day "What is important and gives a glimmer of hope is that what started as a response to a military coup has become a broader alliance across the many differences, especially ethnic ones, within Burmese society," Stokke added. The Nobel committee only considers January 31 deadline for this year's awards and so the nomination by Stokke will be taken next year.

Myanmar protesters nominated for Nobel Peace Prize

Myanmar’s economy is set to contract by 10 per cent in 2021, as per forecasts by World Bank released on Friday. Currently, the Southeast Asian nation is witnessing nation-wide protests, strikes, and sanctions after a military coup ousted Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. 
 
Earlier forecasts by the World Bank expected a 5.9 per cent growth for Myanmar, back in October 2020. This marks a sharp decline from one of&nbsp;the strongest growth rates in the region.

“Myanmar has been heavily affected by protests, worker strikes, and military actions; reductions in mobility; and the ongoing disruption of critical public services in addition to banking, logistics, and internet services", the World Bank said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/myanmar-firebomb-hurled-at-aung-san-suu-kyis-party-headquarters-373211" hreflang="en">Myanmar: Firebomb hurled at Aung San Suu Kyi's party headquarters</a>

A civil disobedience campaign is underway in Myanmar, and protesters have targeted the economy, halting the baking system and urging foreign investors to pull out till democracy is restored.

The junta leadership has regularly shut down internet to curb voices of protests in the are, which has also undermined economic activity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/us-uk-sanction-myanmar-military-owned-company-373144" hreflang="en">US, UK sanction Myanmar military-owned company</a>

The country has witnessed daily protests since 1 after the military installed the junta. Suu Kyi, along with other members of the National League for Democracy (NLD) remain in detention. 
 
According to an estimate the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), at least 320 people have died in the protests till Thursday.

Myanmar’s economy is set to contract by 10 per cent in 2021, as per forecasts by World Bank released on Friday. Currently, the Southeast Asian nation is witnessing nation-wide protests, strikes, and sanctions after a military coup ousted Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1.

Myanmar’s economy is set to contract by 10 per cent in 2021, as per forecasts by World Bank released on Friday. Currently, the Southeast Asian nation is witnessing nation-wide protests, strikes, and sanctions after a military coup ousted Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. Earlier forecasts by the World Bank expected a 5.9 per cent growth for Myanmar, back in October 2020. This marks a sharp decline from one of the strongest growth rates in the region. “Myanmar has been heavily affected by protests, worker strikes, and military actions; reductions in mobility; and the ongoing disruption of critical public services in addition to banking, logistics, and internet services", the World Bank said. Also read: Myanmar: Firebomb hurled at Aung San Suu Kyi's party headquarters A civil disobedience campaign is underway in Myanmar, and protesters have targeted the economy, halting the baking system and urging foreign investors to pull out till democracy is restored. The junta leadership has regularly shut down internet to curb voices of protests in the are, which has also undermined economic activity. Also read: US, UK sanction Myanmar military-owned company The country has witnessed daily protests since 1 after the military installed the junta. Suu Kyi, along with other members of the National League for Democracy (NLD) remain in detention. According to an estimate the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), at least 320 people have died in the protests till Thursday.

Myanmar's economy to shrink by 10% this year as protests swell: World Bank

The United Kingdom and the United States on Thursday sanctioned Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd (MEHL), a military-owned conglomerate as a measure to target the junta that ousted the civilian government.&nbsp;

"Today's sanctions target the military's financial interests to help drain the sources of finance for their campaigns of repression against civilians," British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in a statement said.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Britain alleged that MEHL was sanctioned as it backed Myanmar's military in its efforts "on ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya in 2017".

Shortly After the announcement by the UK, the US said it was sanctioning MEHL and also the Myanmar Economic Corporation Limited (MEC). &nbsp;

Myanmar's military "controls significant segments of the country's economy through these holding firms," a statement from the US treasury department said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-blacklist-myanmar-military-companies-after-coup-crackdown-372962">US to blacklist Myanmar military companies after coup, crackdown</a>

The organisations are dominant in many sectors of Myanmar's economy, including natural resources, consumer goods, trading, and alcohol.&nbsp;

"These sanctions specifically target the economic resources of Burma's military regime, which is responsible for the overthrow of Burma's democratically elected government and the ongoing repression of the Burmese people," the US said.

Washington also said that the sanctions were not "directed" towards Myanmar people.&nbsp;

The latest measures follow sanctions by the EU and the US on Myanmar individuals and groups on Monday who were responsible to overthrow the nation's democratically elected government.&nbsp;

The United Kingdom and the United States on Thursday sanctioned Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd (MEHL), a military-owned conglomerate as a measure to target the junta that ousted the civilian government.

The United Kingdom and the United States on Thursday sanctioned Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd (MEHL), a military-owned conglomerate as a measure to target the junta that ousted the civilian government. "Today's sanctions target the military's financial interests to help drain the sources of finance for their campaigns of repression against civilians," British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in a statement said. Watch | Britain alleged that MEHL was sanctioned as it backed Myanmar's military in its efforts "on ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya in 2017". Shortly After the announcement by the UK, the US said it was sanctioning MEHL and also the Myanmar Economic Corporation Limited (MEC). Myanmar's military "controls significant segments of the country's economy through these holding firms," a statement from the US treasury department said. Also read | US to blacklist Myanmar military companies after coup, crackdown The organisations are dominant in many sectors of Myanmar's economy, including natural resources, consumer goods, trading, and alcohol. "These sanctions specifically target the economic resources of Burma's military regime, which is responsible for the overthrow of Burma's democratically elected government and the ongoing repression of the Burmese people," the US said. Washington also said that the sanctions were not "directed" towards Myanmar people. The latest measures follow sanctions by the EU and the US on Myanmar individuals and groups on Monday who were responsible to overthrow the nation's democratically elected government.

US, UK sanction Myanmar military-owned company

Opponents of Myanmar's coup planned more protests on Saturday as international pressure on the military junta to halt its repression of pro-democracy supporters increased.

A young man was shot and killed in one of the most turbulent neighbourhoods of the main city of Yangon on Saturday, a resident and media reported, taking the death toll since the February 1 coup to 238, according to a tally by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group.

Two people were killed when soldiers opened fire overnight (Friday) in the northern ruby mining town of Mogok, the Myanmar Now news portal reported.&nbsp;

Also, more than 2,000 people have been detained, according to a local monitoring group.

The bloodshed has not quelled the anger over the ouster of the elected government and the detention of its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, though some protest organisers say they have to adapt their tactics.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader, triggering a mass uprising that security forces have sought to crush with a campaign of violence and fear.&nbsp;

The military has justified its takeover by claiming electoral fraud in elections last November that were won by Suu Kyi's party in a landslide. But it has faced international condemnation for the coup and subsequent bloody crackdown, with the US and Britain hitting the junta with sanctions.&nbsp;

EU foreign ministers are on Monday set to approve sanctions on 11 Myanmar junta officials. The move comes after the 27-nation bloc last month agreed to target Myanmar's military and its economic interests over its seizure of power.

One diplomat said the 11 individuals to be placed on an EU assets freeze and visa ban blacklist by ministers meeting in Brussels are military and police officers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bbcs-myanmar-journalist-goes-missing-as-crackdown-on-dissent-continues-371730">Also read |&nbsp;BBC's Myanmar journalist goes missing as crackdown on dissent continues</a>

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday condemned what he denounced as the military's continuing brutal violence. A "firm, unified international response" was urgently needed, his spokesman quoted him as saying.

UN rapporteur Tom Andrews called for sanctions to what he called the generals' ruthless attacks on the people.

"The world must respond by cutting their access to money and weapons. Now," he wrote on Twitter.

The US House of Representatives approved legislation condemning the coup and lawmakers decried the increasingly harsh tactics against the demonstrators.

Authorities have tightened restrictions on internet services, making information increasingly difficult to verify, and clamped down on private media.

Ambassadors of Western countries condemned the violence as "immoral and indefensible", in the Hlaing Tharyar industrial district of the commercial capital Yangon, where dozens were killed over several days after Chinese-owned garment factories were torched last weekend.

"Internet blackouts and suppression of the media will not hide the military's abhorrent actions," they said in a statement on Friday.

Asian neighbours have also been speaking out to urge an end to the violence.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo, in some of the strongest comments yet by a regional leader, said he would ask Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to call an urgent meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-deploys-ai-indonesian-president-calls-for-asean-meeting-on-coup-crisis-371577">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar deploys AI; Indonesian president calls for ASEAN meeting on coup crisis</a>

"Indonesia urges that the use of violence in Myanmar be stopped immediately so that there are no more victims," Jokowi said in a virtual address. "The safety and welfare of the people must be the top priority."

Backing Indonesia's call for a meeting, Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said he was appalled by the persistent use of lethal violence against unarmed civilians.

Philippine foreign minister Teodoro Locsin said that ASEAN had to act.

Singapore has also spoken out against the violence and the coup that triggered it, calling for the release of Suu Kyi.

But the military has shown no sign of being swayed. Suu Kyi, who has campaigned for democracy in Myanmar for three decades, is now being held at an undisclosed location.

(with inputs from agencies)

Opponents of Myanmar's coup planned more protests on Saturday as international pressure on the military junta to halt its repression of pro-democracy supporters increased.

Opponents of Myanmar's coup planned more protests on Saturday as international pressure on the military junta to halt its repression of pro-democracy supporters increased. A young man was shot and killed in one of the most turbulent neighbourhoods of the main city of Yangon on Saturday, a resident and media reported, taking the death toll since the February 1 coup to 238, according to a tally by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group. Two people were killed when soldiers opened fire overnight (Friday) in the northern ruby mining town of Mogok, the Myanmar Now news portal reported. Also, more than 2,000 people have been detained, according to a local monitoring group. The bloodshed has not quelled the anger over the ouster of the elected government and the detention of its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, though some protest organisers say they have to adapt their tactics. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted civilian leader, triggering a mass uprising that security forces have sought to crush with a campaign of violence and fear. The military has justified its takeover by claiming electoral fraud in elections last November that were won by Suu Kyi's party in a landslide. But it has faced international condemnation for the coup and subsequent bloody crackdown, with the US and Britain hitting the junta with sanctions. EU foreign ministers are on Monday set to approve sanctions on 11 Myanmar junta officials. The move comes after the 27-nation bloc last month agreed to target Myanmar's military and its economic interests over its seizure of power. One diplomat said the 11 individuals to be placed on an EU assets freeze and visa ban blacklist by ministers meeting in Brussels are military and police officers. Also read | BBC's Myanmar journalist goes missing as crackdown on dissent continues UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday condemned what he denounced as the military's continuing brutal violence. A "firm, unified international response" was urgently needed, his spokesman quoted him as saying. UN rapporteur Tom Andrews called for sanctions to what he called the generals' ruthless attacks on the people. "The world must respond by cutting their access to money and weapons. Now," he wrote on Twitter. The US House of Representatives approved legislation condemning the coup and lawmakers decried the increasingly harsh tactics against the demonstrators. Authorities have tightened restrictions on internet services, making information increasingly difficult to verify, and clamped down on private media. Ambassadors of Western countries condemned the violence as "immoral and indefensible", in the Hlaing Tharyar industrial district of the commercial capital Yangon, where dozens were killed over several days after Chinese-owned garment factories were torched last weekend. "Internet blackouts and suppression of the media will not hide the military's abhorrent actions," they said in a statement on Friday. Asian neighbours have also been speaking out to urge an end to the violence. Indonesian President Joko Widodo, in some of the strongest comments yet by a regional leader, said he would ask Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to call an urgent meeting. Also read | Myanmar deploys AI; Indonesian president calls for ASEAN meeting on coup crisis "Indonesia urges that the use of violence in Myanmar be stopped immediately so that there are no more victims," Jokowi said in a virtual address. "The safety and welfare of the people must be the top priority." Backing Indonesia's call for a meeting, Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said he was appalled by the persistent use of lethal violence against unarmed civilians. Philippine foreign minister Teodoro Locsin said that ASEAN had to act. Singapore has also spoken out against the violence and the coup that triggered it, calling for the release of Suu Kyi. But the military has shown no sign of being swayed. Suu Kyi, who has campaigned for democracy in Myanmar for three decades, is now being held at an undisclosed location. (with inputs from agencies)

International pressure on Myanmar junta officials grows as protesters continue to march

In august 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas arrived on the beaches of Bangladesh. Around 60% of them were children.

They were fleeing what the United Nations&nbsp;later called&nbsp;a textbook example of genocide. Myanmar's military had burned Rohingya villages to the ground, separated and killed families, gangraped women and girls, committed unspeakable atrocities.

By September 2019, more than 100,000 Rohingyas fled Myanmar. This was only their latest exodus.&nbsp;Nearly 1.4 million Rohingyas are in refuge in Bangladesh now,&nbsp;200,000 in Malaysia,&nbsp;1,200 in Indonesia,&nbsp;800 in Nepal, 650 in Sri Lanka,&nbsp;560 in Japan and&nbsp;50,000 in India.

The world is carrying the weight of Myanmar's misdeeds. And now, the world is bracing for another challenge. After a genocide, Myanmar is now pulling off a coup.&nbsp;

The military is using battle weapons against civilians. It is giving terror groups a free run.

Case in point- the Arakan army, or the AA. It was placed on the list of terror groups in 2020. This was under the government of ousted state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Myanmar's military has delisted the same Arakan Army. It poses no threat, says the military.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-myanmar-becoming-a-security-nightmare-369803">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-myanmar-becoming-a-security-nightmare-369803/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The truth is, the military wants to use the terror army to terrorise civilians, quash the civil disobedience movement. They've already killed at least 70 people. &nbsp;

The terror is far from over. And its threat&nbsp;is spreading beyond the country's borders. Myanmar is becoming a security nightmare for the region. It may sound like a sweeping statement.

Let's start with India.&nbsp; 
The coup in Myanmar has put India's border security at risk. India shares a 1,643 km-long border, kinship and a colonial history with Myanmar.

While Myanmar burns, it is the Indian state of Mizoram&nbsp;that's hurting. There are sit-ins in Mizoram in support of Myanmar's civilians.&nbsp;

Reports say&nbsp;several Mizo village council authorities have even &nbsp;issued letters,&nbsp;declaring their willingness to accommodate refugees.

On the 24th of February, Mizoram's chief minister&nbsp;Zoramthanga assured the state assembly that his government will be ready to assist refugees. It's an interesting history. The Chin people&nbsp;of Myanmar are the ethnic brethren of India's Mizos and Kukis. The boiling of passion is understandable.

But it's in conflict with New Delhi's stand. India has constructive engagements with the military junta.&nbsp;They work together in counter-terror operations. New Delhi is currently walking a geopolitical tightrope. A slight disbalance can threaten India's border security...

 
Then we have Bangladesh.

Look at the kind of trouble Myanmar has put Dhaka in. It is now home to the world's biggest refugee camp.

The Kutupalong camp&nbsp;is one of the many Rohingya camps in Bangladesh. The country is supporting over 1.4 million Rohingyas without much international aid.&nbsp;It recently spent $350 million to develop a sustainable shelter for rohingyas in the Bhasan Char island. Just when Dhaka thought it had got a grip on the refugee crisis, the coup has sparked fears of a fresh exodus.

Those already in Bangladesh are now all the more scared to go back to Myanmar.

 
Next, we come to Thailand.

Bangkok is calling the situation in Myanmar one of the "most difficult political incidents''&nbsp;in a neighbouring country.&nbsp;The coup has led to rising fears of a new wave of political asylum seekers in Thailand.

The Bangkok Post reports that in the first week of March,&nbsp;more than 100 people from Myanmar sneaked into Thailand via various human-smuggling routes in Tak and Kanchanaburi.

Let's look at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next.&nbsp;

Myanmar is a part of it. And it is now challenging the very relevance of this group. Foreign ministers from all of these countries held a meeting with the junta's new foreign minister. This happened on the second of March.

Brunei- the current chair of ASEAN - published a statement:&nbsp;"We reiterated that the political stability in ASEAN member states is essential to achieving a peaceful, stable and prosperous ASEAN community."

A day later,&nbsp;the deadliest day of Myanmar coup opposition happened: 38 killed.

A security threat does not always have to be a threat to life or territory.

Do you know how the United States described the Myanmar military coup?&nbsp;'Extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States'.

Think about it. Why would a small country, thousands of miles away from Washington be a security threat to the US?

Because in Myanmar, it is democracy that is under attack. Myanmar's military coup has become a security threat to democracies around the world.&nbsp;The threat becomes even more serious when you consider Myanmar's geographical and diplomatic proximity to one northern neighbour:&nbsp;China.

A country that seems to be justifying the coup,&nbsp;by calling it a mere reshuffle.

In 2020, China used the pandemic to impose authoritarianism in Hong Kong.

As we speak, it is moving to vet the city state's political candidates. Its neighbour followed suit.

On the first of February, Myanmar's military staged a coup.&nbsp;It justified the takeover with an unproven assumption that the elections were rigged. It acted with surprising impunity.

Fingers were pointing at China. Experts say Myanmar's junta could not have pulled any of this off without Beijing's support. China's statements are only adding weight to the allegation.

This is a period of worrying uncertainty. So far, Myanmar has sparked a refugee crisis, threatened border security and political stability. What else qualifies as a security threat?

In august 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas arrived on the beaches of Bangladesh. Around 60% of them were children. They were fleeing what the United Nations later called a textbook example of genocide.

In august 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas arrived on the beaches of Bangladesh. Around 60% of them were children. They were fleeing what the United Nations later called a textbook example of genocide. Myanmar's military had burned Rohingya villages to the ground, separated and killed families, gangraped women and girls, committed unspeakable atrocities. By September 2019, more than 100,000 Rohingyas fled Myanmar. This was only their latest exodus. Nearly 1.4 million Rohingyas are in refuge in Bangladesh now, 200,000 in Malaysia, 1,200 in Indonesia, 800 in Nepal, 650 in Sri Lanka, 560 in Japan and 50,000 in India. The world is carrying the weight of Myanmar's misdeeds. And now, the world is bracing for another challenge. After a genocide, Myanmar is now pulling off a coup. The military is using battle weapons against civilians. It is giving terror groups a free run. Case in point- the Arakan army, or the AA. It was placed on the list of terror groups in 2020. This was under the government of ousted state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Myanmar's military has delisted the same Arakan Army. It poses no threat, says the military. WATCH | The truth is, the military wants to use the terror army to terrorise civilians, quash the civil disobedience movement. They've already killed at least 70 people. The terror is far from over. And its threat is spreading beyond the country's borders. Myanmar is becoming a security nightmare for the region. It may sound like a sweeping statement. Let's start with India. The coup in Myanmar has put India's border security at risk. India shares a 1,643 km-long border, kinship and a colonial history with Myanmar. While Myanmar burns, it is the Indian state of Mizoram that's hurting. There are sit-ins in Mizoram in support of Myanmar's civilians. Reports say several Mizo village council authorities have even issued letters, declaring their willingness to accommodate refugees. On the 24th of February, Mizoram's chief minister Zoramthanga assured the state assembly that his government will be ready to assist refugees. It's an interesting history. The Chin people of Myanmar are the ethnic brethren of India's Mizos and Kukis. The boiling of passion is understandable. But it's in conflict with New Delhi's stand. India has constructive engagements with the military junta. They work together in counter-terror operations. New Delhi is currently walking a geopolitical tightrope. A slight disbalance can threaten India's border security... Then we have Bangladesh. Look at the kind of trouble Myanmar has put Dhaka in. It is now home to the world's biggest refugee camp. The Kutupalong camp is one of the many Rohingya camps in Bangladesh. The country is supporting over 1.4 million Rohingyas without much international aid. It recently spent $350 million to develop a sustainable shelter for rohingyas in the Bhasan Char island. Just when Dhaka thought it had got a grip on the refugee crisis, the coup has sparked fears of a fresh exodus. Those already in Bangladesh are now all the more scared to go back to Myanmar. Next, we come to Thailand. Bangkok is calling the situation in Myanmar one of the "most difficult political incidents'' in a neighbouring country. The coup has led to rising fears of a new wave of political asylum seekers in Thailand. The Bangkok Post reports that in the first week of March, more than 100 people from Myanmar sneaked into Thailand via various human-smuggling routes in Tak and Kanchanaburi. Let's look at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next. Myanmar is a part of it. And it is now challenging the very relevance of this group. Foreign ministers from all of these countries held a meeting with the junta's new foreign minister. This happened on the second of March. Brunei- the current chair of ASEAN - published a statement: "We reiterated that the political stability in ASEAN member states is essential to achieving a peaceful, stable and prosperous ASEAN community." A day later, the deadliest day of Myanmar coup opposition happened: 38 killed. A security threat does not always have to be a threat to life or territory. Do you know how the United States described the Myanmar military coup? 'Extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States'. Think about it. Why would a small country, thousands of miles away from Washington be a security threat to the US? Because in Myanmar, it is democracy that is under attack. Myanmar's military coup has become a security threat to democracies around the world. The threat becomes even more serious when you consider Myanmar's geographical and diplomatic proximity to one northern neighbour: China. A country that seems to be justifying the coup, by calling it a mere reshuffle. In 2020, China used the pandemic to impose authoritarianism in Hong Kong. As we speak, it is moving to vet the city state's political candidates. Its neighbour followed suit. On the first of February, Myanmar's military staged a coup. It justified the takeover with an unproven assumption that the elections were rigged. It acted with surprising impunity. Fingers were pointing at China. Experts say Myanmar's junta could not have pulled any of this off without Beijing's support. China's statements are only adding weight to the allegation. This is a period of worrying uncertainty. So far, Myanmar has sparked a refugee crisis, threatened border security and political stability. What else qualifies as a security threat?

Myanmar is becoming a security threat for the region while China looks the other way

Myanmar's military junta on Thursday accused detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi of accepting a $600,000 illegal payment and more than 11 kilograms of gold.

"We have learnt Daw Aung San Suu Kyi herself took this $600,000 and seven visses (11.2 kilograms) of gold. The anti-corruption commission is investigating," the military's spokesman Zaw Min Tun told reporters in the capital Naypyidaw.

Meanwhile, rights group Amnesty International accused the military of adopting battle tactics against demonstrators.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-military-junta-removes-rakhine-rebels-from-list-of-terrorist-groups-369640">Myanmar's military junta removes Rakhine rebels from list of terrorist groups</a>

Six people were killed in the central town of Myaing when forces fired on a protest, a man who took part in the demonstration and helped carry bodies to hospital told Reuters by telephone. A health worker there confirmed all six deaths.

"We protested peacefully," the 31-year-old man said. "I couldn't believe they did it."

One person was killed in the North Dagon district of the biggest city of Yangon, domestic media said. Photographs posted on Facebook showed a man lying prone on the street, bleeding from a head wound. One death was reported in Mandalay.

Before Thursday's deaths, an advocacy group, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, had said more than 60 protesters were killed and about 2,000 people detained by security forces since the Feb. 1 coup against Suu Kyi's elected government.

Amnesty International accused the army of using lethal force against protesters and said many killings it had documented amounted to extrajudicial executions.

"These are not the actions of overwhelmed, individual officers making poor decisions," said Joanne Mariner, the group's director of crisis response.

"These are unrepentant commanders already implicated in crimes against humanity, deploying their troops and murderous methods in the open."

A military spokesman declined to comment on the violence.

The junta has previously said it is acting with utmost restraint in handling what it describes as demonstrations by "riotous protesters" whom it accuses of attacking police and harming national security and stability.

The spokesman, Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun, told a news conference in the capital, Naypyitaw, that Suu Kyi had accepted illegal payments worth $600,000 as well as gold while in government.

The information had been verified and many people were being questioned, he added.

He said President Win Myint and several cabinet ministers had also engaged in corruption and that he had pressured the country's election commission not to act on the military's reports of irregularities.

UN fails to call takeover a coup

The army has justified the takeover by saying that a November election, overwhelmingly won by Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy, was marred by fraud - an assertion rejected by the electoral commission.

Zaw Min Tun also reiterated that the military would only be in charge for a certain period before holding an election. The junta has previously promised a new election within a year, but has not set a date.

The U.N. Security Council on Wednesday condemned violence against protesters and urged the army to show restraint.

But language that would have denounced the military takeover as a coup or threatened possible further action was removed from the British-drafted text, due to opposition by China, India, Russia and Vietnam.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he hoped the Security Council statement would push the military to realise it "is absolutely essential" that all prisoners are released and the results of the November election are respected.

In&nbsp;Myanmar, state media said the junta had removed Arakan Army (AA) insurgents from its list of terrorist groups because the faction had stopped attacks in order to help establish peace across the country.

The move comes as the army struggles to restrain daily protests against the coup.

The AA, which is fighting for greater autonomy in the western state of Rakhine, had become one of the most formidable forces in challenging an army that has been fighting various ethnic wars for seven decades.

Myanmar's military junta on Thursday accused detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi of accepting a $600,000 illegal payment and more than 11 kilograms of gold.

Myanmar's military junta on Thursday accused detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi of accepting a $600,000 illegal payment and more than 11 kilograms of gold. "We have learnt Daw Aung San Suu Kyi herself took this $600,000 and seven visses (11.2 kilograms) of gold. The anti-corruption commission is investigating," the military's spokesman Zaw Min Tun told reporters in the capital Naypyidaw. Meanwhile, rights group Amnesty International accused the military of adopting battle tactics against demonstrators. Also read: Myanmar's military junta removes Rakhine rebels from list of terrorist groups Six people were killed in the central town of Myaing when forces fired on a protest, a man who took part in the demonstration and helped carry bodies to hospital told Reuters by telephone. A health worker there confirmed all six deaths. "We protested peacefully," the 31-year-old man said. "I couldn't believe they did it." One person was killed in the North Dagon district of the biggest city of Yangon, domestic media said. Photographs posted on Facebook showed a man lying prone on the street, bleeding from a head wound. One death was reported in Mandalay. Before Thursday's deaths, an advocacy group, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, had said more than 60 protesters were killed and about 2,000 people detained by security forces since the Feb. 1 coup against Suu Kyi's elected government. Amnesty International accused the army of using lethal force against protesters and said many killings it had documented amounted to extrajudicial executions. "These are not the actions of overwhelmed, individual officers making poor decisions," said Joanne Mariner, the group's director of crisis response. "These are unrepentant commanders already implicated in crimes against humanity, deploying their troops and murderous methods in the open." A military spokesman declined to comment on the violence. The junta has previously said it is acting with utmost restraint in handling what it describes as demonstrations by "riotous protesters" whom it accuses of attacking police and harming national security and stability. The spokesman, Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun, told a news conference in the capital, Naypyitaw, that Suu Kyi had accepted illegal payments worth $600,000 as well as gold while in government. The information had been verified and many people were being questioned, he added. He said President Win Myint and several cabinet ministers had also engaged in corruption and that he had pressured the country's election commission not to act on the military's reports of irregularities. UN fails to call takeover a coup The army has justified the takeover by saying that a November election, overwhelmingly won by Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy, was marred by fraud - an assertion rejected by the electoral commission. Zaw Min Tun also reiterated that the military would only be in charge for a certain period before holding an election. The junta has previously promised a new election within a year, but has not set a date. The U.N. Security Council on Wednesday condemned violence against protesters and urged the army to show restraint. But language that would have denounced the military takeover as a coup or threatened possible further action was removed from the British-drafted text, due to opposition by China, India, Russia and Vietnam. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he hoped the Security Council statement would push the military to realise it "is absolutely essential" that all prisoners are released and the results of the November election are respected. In Myanmar, state media said the junta had removed Arakan Army (AA) insurgents from its list of terrorist groups because the faction had stopped attacks in order to help establish peace across the country. The move comes as the army struggles to restrain daily protests against the coup. The AA, which is fighting for greater autonomy in the western state of Rakhine, had become one of the most formidable forces in challenging an army that has been fighting various ethnic wars for seven decades.

Myanmar junta accuses Suu Kyi of taking $600,000 illegal payment

International pressure on Myanmar is growing. The United Nations Human Rights office has condemned Myanmar Junta's violent crackdown on the demonstrators.

UN condemns Myanmar junta's violent crackdown on demonstrators

Massive street demonstrations have taken place across the country, while a civil disobedience campaign has choked many government operations as well as businesses.

Myanmar junta sends out stern warning to public

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