&nbsp;At least 12 people were killed and dozens went missing when a landslide hit a jade mine in Myanmar`s northernmost Kachin state, local police said on Tuesday. 
 
&nbsp;"A landslide occurred late on Monday. Nearly 40 jade scavengers were buried. Twelve bodies have been found this morning and the rescue operation is underway," the police said, Xinhua news agency reported.

The death toll could be higher in the landslide that struck an old jade mining site in Mat Lin Chaung village in Hpakant township of Kachin state at 22.35 p.m. local time on Monday, a local resident said. 
 
Deadly landslides are frequent in Kachin state, especially in Hpakant mining region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-accuses-foreign-media-of-persistent-bias-457497">Myanmar junta accuses foreign media of 'persistent bias'</a>

Many locals make their living by scavenging jade in the region and most of the landslides are caused by partial collapse of the tailing heaps or dams. 
 
A major fatal landslide occurred at a jade mining site in Hpakant township in July 2020, leaving 174 dead and 54 others injured.

At least 12 people were killed and dozens went missing when a landslide hit a jade mine in Myanmar`s northernmost Kachin state, local police said on Tuesday. "A landslide occurred late on Monday.

At least 12 people were killed and dozens went missing when a landslide hit a jade mine in Myanmar`s northernmost Kachin state, local police said on Tuesday. "A landslide occurred late on Monday. Nearly 40 jade scavengers were buried. Twelve bodies have been found this morning and the rescue operation is underway," the police said, Xinhua news agency reported. The death toll could be higher in the landslide that struck an old jade mining site in Mat Lin Chaung village in Hpakant township of Kachin state at 22.35 p.m. local time on Monday, a local resident said. Deadly landslides are frequent in Kachin state, especially in Hpakant mining region. Also read | Myanmar junta accuses foreign media of 'persistent bias' Many locals make their living by scavenging jade in the region and most of the landslides are caused by partial collapse of the tailing heaps or dams. A major fatal landslide occurred at a jade mining site in Hpakant township in July 2020, leaving 174 dead and 54 others injured.

Jade mine landslide kills 12 in Myanmar

Myanmar's military government complained on Monday of biased coverage by&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;media, which it said was misreporting events in the country and being swayed by distorted information from "terrorists" determined to create instability.

In a rare statement, the State Administrative Council (SAC), as the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;is known, said it was a friend to the&nbsp;media&nbsp;and international community, but those were misrepresenting its efforts to ensure peace and protect its citizens.

"What we find troubling is the clear and persistent bias of certain&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;media&nbsp;towards terrorist groups. But these&nbsp;media&nbsp;are doing so without fully ascertaining the facts," its information ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eu-sanctions-22-myanmar-officials-gas-company-over-abuses-455283">EU sanctions 22 Myanmar officials, gas company over abuses</a>

"The terrorists appear to have swayed sections of the&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;media&nbsp;who report without checking, and repeat misinformation as truth."

Myanmar&nbsp;has been in turmoil since a coup a year ago, with at least 1,500 civilians killed by security forces, according to activists cited by the United Nations, which the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;has also accused of bias.

The military has been battling militias allied with a parallel National Unity Government (NUG), which last year called for a nationwide revolt and has been outlawed by the&nbsp;junta.

State&nbsp;media&nbsp;coverage of the unrest has been rare, but the military has denied committing atrocities.

The SAC on Monday said 4,338 "terrorists" had been arrested overall, but nearly 49,000 people prosecuted for joining anti-coup protests had been released.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eu-expands-sanctions-on-myanmar-military-junta-regime-455174">EU expands sanctions on Myanmar military junta regime</a>

It did not mention military casualties but said 95 civil servants and 20 monks had been killed, while 525 roads and bridges, 27 hospitals, 504 schools and educational facilities had been destroyed, during 9,437 attacks.

The SAC's statement made no mention of a peace process it has committed to with its Southeast Asian neighbours, but said it would hold an election by August next year.

It urged&nbsp;media&nbsp;to recognise "the return to normalcy in all major towns and cities".

Watch |&nbsp;UN rights expert urges cutting off weapon supply to Myanmar junta

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Nay Phone Latt, a senior member of the ruling party ousted by the military and a representative of the NUG, defended the integrity of the press and said armed resistance was justified.

"The people are in a defensive war with SAC members who arrest, torture and kill civilians and burn down peoples' houses," Nay Phone Latt told Reuters.

Myanmar's military government complained on Monday of biased coverage by foreign media, which it said was misreporting events in the country and being swayed by distorted information from "terrorists" determined to create instability.

Myanmar's military government complained on Monday of biased coverage by foreign media, which it said was misreporting events in the country and being swayed by distorted information from "terrorists" determined to create instability. In a rare statement, the State Administrative Council (SAC), as the junta is known, said it was a friend to the media and international community, but those were misrepresenting its efforts to ensure peace and protect its citizens. "What we find troubling is the clear and persistent bias of certain foreign media towards terrorist groups. But these media are doing so without fully ascertaining the facts," its information ministry said. Also read | EU sanctions 22 Myanmar officials, gas company over abuses "The terrorists appear to have swayed sections of the foreign media who report without checking, and repeat misinformation as truth." Myanmar has been in turmoil since a coup a year ago, with at least 1,500 civilians killed by security forces, according to activists cited by the United Nations, which the junta has also accused of bias. The military has been battling militias allied with a parallel National Unity Government (NUG), which last year called for a nationwide revolt and has been outlawed by the junta. State media coverage of the unrest has been rare, but the military has denied committing atrocities. The SAC on Monday said 4,338 "terrorists" had been arrested overall, but nearly 49,000 people prosecuted for joining anti-coup protests had been released. Also read | EU expands sanctions on Myanmar military junta regime It did not mention military casualties but said 95 civil servants and 20 monks had been killed, while 525 roads and bridges, 27 hospitals, 504 schools and educational facilities had been destroyed, during 9,437 attacks. The SAC's statement made no mention of a peace process it has committed to with its Southeast Asian neighbours, but said it would hold an election by August next year. It urged media to recognise "the return to normalcy in all major towns and cities". Watch | UN rights expert urges cutting off weapon supply to Myanmar junta Nay Phone Latt, a senior member of the ruling party ousted by the military and a representative of the NUG, defended the integrity of the press and said armed resistance was justified. "The people are in a defensive war with SAC members who arrest, torture and kill civilians and burn down peoples' houses," Nay Phone Latt told Reuters.

Myanmar junta accuses foreign media of 'persistent bias'

The United Nations human rights expert on Myanmar on Tuesday urged the Security Council to take strong actions to stop countries, including two Council members, from supplying arms to the junta, saying they are used to kill civilians.

UN rights expert urges cutting off weapon supply to Myanmar junta

UN&nbsp;Security Council members&nbsp;China&nbsp;and&nbsp;Russia, as well as Serbia have continued supplying Myanmar's junta with weapons used to attack civilians since last year's coup, a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;rights&nbsp;expert&nbsp;said Tuesday.

United Nations Special Rapporteur on the&nbsp;rights&nbsp;situation in&nbsp;Myanmar, Tom Andrews, urged the Security Council to convene an emergency session "to debate and vote on a resolution to, at a minimum, ban those arms transfers that the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military are known to use to attack and kill&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;civilians."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-defector-recounts-heavy-losses-inflicted-by-chin-rebels-452562">Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels</a>

He released a long-awaited report Tuesday detailing where the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;is getting its weapons from, highlighting that two permanent members of the Security Council itself, who hold veto power over its decisions, remain among the main suppliers.

"Despite the evidence of the military&nbsp;junta's atrocity crimes being committed with impunity since launching a coup last year,&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Security Council members&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;China&nbsp;continue to provide the Myanmar military junta with numerous fighter jets, armoured vehicles, and in the case of&nbsp;Russia, the promise of further arms," Andrews said in a statement.

"During this same period, Serbia has authorised rockets and artillery for export to the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military," said Andrews, who is an independent&nbsp;expert&nbsp;appointed by the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;Human Rights&nbsp;Council, but who does not speak on behalf of the world body.

'Crimes against humanity'

In his report, he maintained that the arms transfers by the three countries had "occurred with the full knowledge that they would be used to attack civilians, in probable violation of international law."

Myanmar&nbsp;has been in chaos, its economy paralysed, and more than 1,500 civilians have been killed in a military crackdown since the putsch in February 2021, according to the&nbsp;UN.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-asean-myanmar-envoy-says-wants-to-meet-junta-opponents-454056">&nbsp;New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents</a>

Since the February 1, 2021 coup, at least 12,000 people have been detained, including the de facto head of the civilian government, Aung San Suu Kyi, while more than 440,000 people have been forcibly displaced.

Andrews reiterated in his report that "there is strong evidence the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;has committed war crimes and crimes against humanity," including murder, sexual violence and torture.&nbsp;

"The situation of&nbsp;human rights&nbsp;in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;is dire and deteriorating," it said.&nbsp;

The report provides an overview of countries that have authorised the transfer of weapons to&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;since 2018, when the military's attacks on the Rohingya ethnic minority were widely documented and after a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fact-finding mission had urged an arms embargo.

Israel, India, Pakistan, South Korea, Belarus and Ukraine also figure on that list, although only&nbsp;China,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and Serbia have continued their transfers since the coup.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-accused-of-burning-hundreds-of-homes-451051">Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes</a>

'Imperative'

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;General Assembly adopted a resolution last June calling for countries to prevent the flow of arms to&nbsp;Myanmar, but Andrews said that it had failed to have "any discernible impact on the crisis and the capacity of the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;to launch attacks on civilians."

He pointed out that while none of the Security Council members had voted against that resolution, the council had also not even considered voting to make the text binding for member states.

"It is imperative that member states and the Security Council act urgently to stop weapons sales to the military&nbsp;junta. Human lives, and Security Council credibility, are on the line," he said.

The report acknowledges that&nbsp;China&nbsp;and&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;might very well use their veto power to block any such text, but stressed that this "should not deter other members from placing a resolution before the Council for consideration, debate and a vote."&nbsp;

"The people of&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;deserve to have a strong resolution."

"The Security Council should consider, at the very least, a resolution to ban weapons that are being used by the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military to kill innocent people," Andrews said.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar junta driving drug trade | Narcotics

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&nbsp;

UN Security Council members China and Russia, as well as Serbia have continued supplying Myanmar's junta with weapons used to attack civilians since last year's coup, a UN rights expert said Tuesday.

UN Security Council members China and Russia, as well as Serbia have continued supplying Myanmar's junta with weapons used to attack civilians since last year's coup, a UN rights expert said Tuesday. United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights situation in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, urged the Security Council to convene an emergency session "to debate and vote on a resolution to, at a minimum, ban those arms transfers that the Myanmar military are known to use to attack and kill Myanmar civilians." Also read | Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels He released a long-awaited report Tuesday detailing where the junta is getting its weapons from, highlighting that two permanent members of the Security Council itself, who hold veto power over its decisions, remain among the main suppliers. "Despite the evidence of the military junta's atrocity crimes being committed with impunity since launching a coup last year, UN Security Council members Russia and China continue to provide the Myanmar military junta with numerous fighter jets, armoured vehicles, and in the case of Russia, the promise of further arms," Andrews said in a statement. "During this same period, Serbia has authorised rockets and artillery for export to the Myanmar military," said Andrews, who is an independent expert appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, but who does not speak on behalf of the world body. 'Crimes against humanity' In his report, he maintained that the arms transfers by the three countries had "occurred with the full knowledge that they would be used to attack civilians, in probable violation of international law." Myanmar has been in chaos, its economy paralysed, and more than 1,500 civilians have been killed in a military crackdown since the putsch in February 2021, according to the UN. Also read | New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents Since the February 1, 2021 coup, at least 12,000 people have been detained, including the de facto head of the civilian government, Aung San Suu Kyi, while more than 440,000 people have been forcibly displaced. Andrews reiterated in his report that "there is strong evidence the junta has committed war crimes and crimes against humanity," including murder, sexual violence and torture. "The situation of human rights in Myanmar is dire and deteriorating," it said. The report provides an overview of countries that have authorised the transfer of weapons to Myanmar since 2018, when the military's attacks on the Rohingya ethnic minority were widely documented and after a UN fact-finding mission had urged an arms embargo. Israel, India, Pakistan, South Korea, Belarus and Ukraine also figure on that list, although only China, Russia and Serbia have continued their transfers since the coup. Also read | Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes 'Imperative' The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution last June calling for countries to prevent the flow of arms to Myanmar, but Andrews said that it had failed to have "any discernible impact on the crisis and the capacity of the junta to launch attacks on civilians." He pointed out that while none of the Security Council members had voted against that resolution, the council had also not even considered voting to make the text binding for member states. "It is imperative that member states and the Security Council act urgently to stop weapons sales to the military junta. Human lives, and Security Council credibility, are on the line," he said. The report acknowledges that China and Russia might very well use their veto power to block any such text, but stressed that this "should not deter other members from placing a resolution before the Council for consideration, debate and a vote." "The people of Myanmar deserve to have a strong resolution." "The Security Council should consider, at the very least, a resolution to ban weapons that are being used by the Myanmar military to kill innocent people," Andrews said. Watch | Myanmar junta driving drug trade | Narcotics

UN rights expert says China and Russia arming Myanmar junta

The European Union on Monday imposed sanctions on several top officials in Myanmar and on a lucrative state-owned oil and gas company that has helped fund the military that overthrew the country's elected government a year ago.

The bloc imposed asset freezes and travel bans on 22 people and slapped restrictive measures on four entities, including state-owned and private companies.

Among those sanctioned was the state-owned Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE), which is a joint venture partner in all offshore gas projects in Myanmar, including the Yadana gas field with Total Energies and Chevron.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-to-contest-icj-rohingya-case-without-aung-san-suu-kyi-454941">Myanmar to contest ICJ Rohingya case, without Aung San Suu Kyi</a>

Last month, Total and Chevron said they were exiting Myanmar amid rampant human rights abuses committed by the military.

The sanctions on MOGE come after a long campaign by human rights groups within Myanmar and around the world, who argued that sanctioning MOGE would cut off a significant source of the military's funds.

About 50% of Myanmar's foreign currency comes from natural gas revenues, with MOGE expected to earn $1.5 billion from offshore and pipeline projects in 2021-2022, according to a Myanmar government forecast.

Prior rounds of U.S. And European sanctions against the Myanmar military have excluded oil and gas. The Yadana field supplies gas to Myanmar and neighbouring Thailand.

EU headquarters said in a statement that the bloc is deeply concerned by the continuing escalation of violence in Myanmar and the evolution towards a protracted conflict with regional implications. Since the military coup, the situation has continuously and gravely deteriorated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eu-expands-sanctions-on-myanmar-military-junta-regime-455174">EU expands sanctions on Myanmar military junta regime</a>

John Sifton, Asia advocacy director of Human Rights Watch, applauded the EU's decision, noting that the sanctions against MOGE were particularly important given how crucial the company's revenues are to the military.

It is vital, however, that the European Union enforce these measures effectively, and that energy companies now withdrawing from Myanmar do so in a way that doesn't further benefit the junta, Sifton said in a statement.

The European Union must implement these measures in ways that ensure that energy companies' shares in oil and gas operations are not simply transferred or relinquished to junta-controlled entities&nbsp;an outcome that would only enrich the junta further.

Widespread nonviolent protests in Myanmar followed a Feb. 1, 2021, military takeover that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/arson-attacks-and-raids-myanmar-military-has-destroyed-over-4500-homes-since-coup-454365">Arson attacks and raids: Myanmar military has destroyed over 4,500 homes since coup</a>

An armed resistance grew after peaceful protests were put down. The country now faces an insurgency that some experts characterize as a civil war.

More than 1,500 civilians have been tortured to death or killed in the violence, many of them in attacks in rural areas by security forces, including airstrikes.

The 27-country bloc has now imposed sanctions on a total of 65 people and 10 entities, which are usually organizations, agencies, companies or banks.

The European Union on Monday imposed sanctions on several top officials in Myanmar and on a lucrative state-owned oil and gas company that has helped fund the military that overthrew the country's elected government a year ago.

The European Union on Monday imposed sanctions on several top officials in Myanmar and on a lucrative state-owned oil and gas company that has helped fund the military that overthrew the country's elected government a year ago. The bloc imposed asset freezes and travel bans on 22 people and slapped restrictive measures on four entities, including state-owned and private companies. Among those sanctioned was the state-owned Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE), which is a joint venture partner in all offshore gas projects in Myanmar, including the Yadana gas field with Total Energies and Chevron. Also read | Myanmar to contest ICJ Rohingya case, without Aung San Suu Kyi Last month, Total and Chevron said they were exiting Myanmar amid rampant human rights abuses committed by the military. The sanctions on MOGE come after a long campaign by human rights groups within Myanmar and around the world, who argued that sanctioning MOGE would cut off a significant source of the military's funds. About 50% of Myanmar's foreign currency comes from natural gas revenues, with MOGE expected to earn $1.5 billion from offshore and pipeline projects in 2021-2022, according to a Myanmar government forecast. Prior rounds of U.S. And European sanctions against the Myanmar military have excluded oil and gas. The Yadana field supplies gas to Myanmar and neighbouring Thailand. EU headquarters said in a statement that the bloc is deeply concerned by the continuing escalation of violence in Myanmar and the evolution towards a protracted conflict with regional implications. Since the military coup, the situation has continuously and gravely deteriorated. Also read | EU expands sanctions on Myanmar military junta regime John Sifton, Asia advocacy director of Human Rights Watch, applauded the EU's decision, noting that the sanctions against MOGE were particularly important given how crucial the company's revenues are to the military. It is vital, however, that the European Union enforce these measures effectively, and that energy companies now withdrawing from Myanmar do so in a way that doesn't further benefit the junta, Sifton said in a statement. The European Union must implement these measures in ways that ensure that energy companies' shares in oil and gas operations are not simply transferred or relinquished to junta-controlled entities an outcome that would only enrich the junta further. Widespread nonviolent protests in Myanmar followed a Feb. 1, 2021, military takeover that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. Also read | Arson attacks and raids: Myanmar military has destroyed over 4,500 homes since coup An armed resistance grew after peaceful protests were put down. The country now faces an insurgency that some experts characterize as a civil war. More than 1,500 civilians have been tortured to death or killed in the violence, many of them in attacks in rural areas by security forces, including airstrikes. The 27-country bloc has now imposed sanctions on a total of 65 people and 10 entities, which are usually organizations, agencies, companies or banks.

EU sanctions 22 Myanmar officials, gas company over abuses

Myanmar's junta is set to replace&nbsp;Aung San Suu Kyi&nbsp;at the UN's top court Monday as it seeks to dismiss a&nbsp;case&nbsp;over the alleged genocide of&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;Muslims.

Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;personally presented&nbsp;Myanmar's arguments at the&nbsp;International Court of Justice&nbsp;(ICJ) when the&nbsp;case&nbsp;was first heard in December 2019, but was ousted as civilian leader in a military coup last year.

The Nobel peace laureate, who faced criticism from rights groups for her involvement in the&nbsp;case, is now under house arrest and trial by the same generals she defended in The Hague.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/arson-attacks-and-raids-myanmar-military-has-destroyed-over-4500-homes-since-coup-454365">Arson attacks and raids: Myanmar military has destroyed over 4,500 homes since coup</a>

In its "preliminary objections" on Monday,&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;will argue that the court has no jurisdiction over the&nbsp;case, and must throw it out before it moves on to substantive hearings.

Local&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;media said the junta has a new delegation led by Ko Ko Hlaing, international cooperation minister, and Thida Oo, attorney general, who will attend virtually.&nbsp;

Both have been hit with US sanctions over the coup.

The&nbsp;case&nbsp;brought by the mainly Muslim African nation of The Gambia accuses predominantly Buddhist&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;of genocide against the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;minority over a bloody 2017 military crackdown.

The&nbsp;ICJ&nbsp;made a provisional order in January 2020 that&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;must take "all measures" to prevent the alleged genocide of the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;while the years-long proceedings are underway.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-asean-myanmar-envoy-says-wants-to-meet-junta-opponents-454056">New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents</a>

Bloody crackdown

Gambia will make its counter-arguments on Wednesday.

Around 850,000&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh while another 600,000&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;remain in&nbsp;Myanmar's southwestern Rakhine state.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;ICJ&nbsp;was set up after World War II to rule on disputes between UN member states. Its judgments are binding but it has no real means to enforce them.

The&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;case&nbsp;at the&nbsp;ICJ&nbsp;has been complicated by the coup that ousted&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;and her civilian government, and triggered mass protests and a bloody military crackdown. More than 1,500 civilians have been killed, according to a local monitoring group.

Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;now faces trial herself in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;on a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years.

Ahead of the hearing, the shadow "National Unity Government" dominated by lawmakers from&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi’s ousted party said it, not the junta, "is the proper representative of&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;at the&nbsp;ICJ&nbsp;in the&nbsp;case".

It also rejects&nbsp;Myanmar’s preliminary objections, saying the hearings for these should be cancelled and the court should quickly get down to the hearing of the substantive&nbsp;case.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar's military to challenge the jurisdiction of the ICJ on Rohingya genocide

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmars-military-to-challenge-the-jurisdiction-of-the-icj-on-rohingya-genocide-444930/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The NUG holds no territory and has not been recognised by any foreign government, and has been declared a "terrorist" organisation by the junta.

The Gambia accuses&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;of breaching the 1948 UN genocide convention.

Its&nbsp;case&nbsp;is backed by the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Canada and the Netherlands.

Myanmar's junta is set to replace Aung San Suu Kyi at the UN's top court Monday as it seeks to dismiss a case over the alleged genocide of Rohingya Muslims. Suu Kyi personally presented Myanmar's arguments at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) when the case was first heard in December 2019, but was ousted as civilian leader in a military coup last year.

Myanmar's junta is set to replace Aung San Suu Kyi at the UN's top court Monday as it seeks to dismiss a case over the alleged genocide of Rohingya Muslims. Suu Kyi personally presented Myanmar's arguments at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) when the case was first heard in December 2019, but was ousted as civilian leader in a military coup last year. The Nobel peace laureate, who faced criticism from rights groups for her involvement in the case, is now under house arrest and trial by the same generals she defended in The Hague. Also read | Arson attacks and raids: Myanmar military has destroyed over 4,500 homes since coup In its "preliminary objections" on Monday, Myanmar will argue that the court has no jurisdiction over the case, and must throw it out before it moves on to substantive hearings. Local Myanmar media said the junta has a new delegation led by Ko Ko Hlaing, international cooperation minister, and Thida Oo, attorney general, who will attend virtually. Both have been hit with US sanctions over the coup. The case brought by the mainly Muslim African nation of The Gambia accuses predominantly Buddhist Myanmar of genocide against the Rohingya minority over a bloody 2017 military crackdown. The ICJ made a provisional order in January 2020 that Myanmar must take "all measures" to prevent the alleged genocide of the Rohingya while the years-long proceedings are underway. Also read | New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents Bloody crackdown Gambia will make its counter-arguments on Wednesday. Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh while another 600,000 Rohingya remain in Myanmar's southwestern Rakhine state. The ICJ was set up after World War II to rule on disputes between UN member states. Its judgments are binding but it has no real means to enforce them. The Rohingya case at the ICJ has been complicated by the coup that ousted Suu Kyi and her civilian government, and triggered mass protests and a bloody military crackdown. More than 1,500 civilians have been killed, according to a local monitoring group. Suu Kyi now faces trial herself in Myanmar on a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years. Ahead of the hearing, the shadow "National Unity Government" dominated by lawmakers from Suu Kyi’s ousted party said it, not the junta, "is the proper representative of Myanmar at the ICJ in the case". It also rejects Myanmar’s preliminary objections, saying the hearings for these should be cancelled and the court should quickly get down to the hearing of the substantive case. Watch | Myanmar's military to challenge the jurisdiction of the ICJ on Rohingya genocide The NUG holds no territory and has not been recognised by any foreign government, and has been declared a "terrorist" organisation by the junta. The Gambia accuses Myanmar of breaching the 1948 UN genocide convention. Its case is backed by the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Canada and the Netherlands.

Myanmar to contest ICJ Rohingya case, without Aung San Suu Kyi

The European Union on Monday added 22 officials of Myanmar's military junta to the bloc's sanctions list. Sanctions have also been imposed on four companies tied to the military regime.

The latest move means that 65 Myanmar officials have till now been hit by EU asset freezes and visa bans. Number of firms under sanctions has come to 10.

Among those targeted by the latest round of sanctions were the ministers for investment, industry and information, officials at the election commission and senior members of military.&nbsp;

Two state mining and energy firms were also added to the list, along with two private firms linked to the junta. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The European Union is deeply concerned by the continuing escalation of violence in Myanmar and the evolution towards a protracted conflict with regional implications," the bloc said in a statement. &nbsp;

"Since the military coup, the situation has continuously and gravely deteriorated."

It repeated calls for "an immediate cessation of all hostilities, and an end to the disproportionate use of force and the state of emergency".

Myanmar has been in chaos, its economy paralysed, and more than 1,500 civilians have been killed in a military crackdown since the putsch in February 2021, according to a local monitoring group.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The European Union on Monday added 22 officials of Myanmar's military junta to the bloc's sanctions list. Sanctions have also been imposed on four companies tied to the military regime.

The European Union on Monday added 22 officials of Myanmar's military junta to the bloc's sanctions list. Sanctions have also been imposed on four companies tied to the military regime. The latest move means that 65 Myanmar officials have till now been hit by EU asset freezes and visa bans. Number of firms under sanctions has come to 10. Among those targeted by the latest round of sanctions were the ministers for investment, industry and information, officials at the election commission and senior members of military. Two state mining and energy firms were also added to the list, along with two private firms linked to the junta. "The European Union is deeply concerned by the continuing escalation of violence in Myanmar and the evolution towards a protracted conflict with regional implications," the bloc said in a statement. "Since the military coup, the situation has continuously and gravely deteriorated." It repeated calls for "an immediate cessation of all hostilities, and an end to the disproportionate use of force and the state of emergency". Myanmar has been in chaos, its economy paralysed, and more than 1,500 civilians have been killed in a military crackdown since the putsch in February 2021, according to a local monitoring group. (With inputs from agencies)

EU expands sanctions on Myanmar military junta regime

Since the February 2021 coup in Myanmar, the country's military has destroyed at least 4,571 civilian homes. More than half of these were in the country’s Sagaing region. As per a report by a research group, the military set 2,567 homes on fire in Sagaing, 976 in Chin state, 626 in Magway region, 310 in Kayah state.&nbsp;

Dozens of other homes&nbsp;were set on fire in the Mandalay region, southern Shan state, Tanintharyi region, Bago region and Kayin state.

A 35-year old man from Magway's Gangaw township spoke on the condition of anonymity. He said, "When I returned home (from fleeing the military raid), the house was gone. It had been turned to ashes. I lost around 50 million kyats ($28,100) and all of my food supplies are gone. I am living in a small shed nearby and for meals I must eat food donated for refugees.”

He further revealed that the military has carried out arson attacks in Hnan Khar village at least five times. This has left many residents homeless.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-asean-myanmar-envoy-says-wants-to-meet-junta-opponents-454056">Also read |&nbsp;New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents</a>

Another woman from Sagaing’s Pale township also spoke on the condition of anonymity said that she lost everything she owned when her home was burned down.&nbsp;

In a report by VOA News, she said, “We were hiding in the woods (when the soldiers came). The house was burned down around 1 am&nbsp;and I discovered that it was gone the next morning."

“I am grieving over our losses, but I don’t want to be lost in despair. I try to encourage myself and others to remain active. We heard homes in other villages were burned down, so we knew this could happen to us one day.”

Since the February 1 coup, the country has been rocked by nationwide protests. According to local monitoring groups, more than 1,100 people have been killed by security forces since the beginning of the coup.

(With inputs from agencies)

Since the February 2021 coup in Myanmar, the country's military has destroyed at least 4,571 civilian homes. More than half of these were in the country’s Sagaing region.

Since the February 2021 coup in Myanmar, the country's military has destroyed at least 4,571 civilian homes. More than half of these were in the country’s Sagaing region. As per a report by a research group, the military set 2,567 homes on fire in Sagaing, 976 in Chin state, 626 in Magway region, 310 in Kayah state. Dozens of other homes were set on fire in the Mandalay region, southern Shan state, Tanintharyi region, Bago region and Kayin state. A 35-year old man from Magway's Gangaw township spoke on the condition of anonymity. He said, "When I returned home (from fleeing the military raid), the house was gone. It had been turned to ashes. I lost around 50 million kyats ($28,100) and all of my food supplies are gone. I am living in a small shed nearby and for meals I must eat food donated for refugees.” He further revealed that the military has carried out arson attacks in Hnan Khar village at least five times. This has left many residents homeless. Also read | New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents Another woman from Sagaing’s Pale township also spoke on the condition of anonymity said that she lost everything she owned when her home was burned down. In a report by VOA News, she said, “We were hiding in the woods (when the soldiers came). The house was burned down around 1 am and I discovered that it was gone the next morning." “I am grieving over our losses, but I don’t want to be lost in despair. I try to encourage myself and others to remain active. We heard homes in other villages were burned down, so we knew this could happen to us one day.” Since the February 1 coup, the country has been rocked by nationwide protests. According to local monitoring groups, more than 1,100 people have been killed by security forces since the beginning of the coup. (With inputs from agencies)

Arson attacks and raids: Myanmar military has destroyed over 4,500 homes since coup

A regional special envoy to Myanmar on Thursday urged its junta to allow him to meet a shadow government it has branded "terrorists" in order to break a deadlock between the military and opponents of the coup.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has led diplomatic efforts to end the chaos unleashed by last year's putsch in Myanmar, which triggered mass protests and a deadly crackdown on dissent.

Cambodian foreign minister Prak Sokhonn, its new special envoy to the country, told a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers he planned to visit in March and meet with top junta officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-says-wont-attend-asean-summit-after-regrettable-snub-453331">Myanmar junta says won't attend ASEAN summit after 'regrettable' snub</a>

He added a request to be allowed to meet with members of a&nbsp;"National Unity Government" dominated by lawmakers from Aung San Suu Kyi's ousted party that is working to overthrow the junta.

"If Naypyidaw is not speaking with the NUG... let the special envoy be the bridge," he said, referring to Myanmar's capital.

The junta has declared the NUG "terrorists" and jailed several high-ranking members of Suu Kyi's party.

Most NUG members are in exile or in hiding and Prak Sokhonn gave no details on where or when any future meeting might take place, or whether he had discussed his plans with the junta.&nbsp;

The junta did not respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-defector-recounts-heavy-losses-inflicted-by-chin-rebels-452562">Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels</a>

Myanmar's top diplomat was barred from Thursday's meeting in Phnom Penh over a lack of progress in defusing violence, although Prak Sokhonn said junta representatives had been allowed to listen in on discussions.

More than 1,500 people have been killed and over 12,000 arrested in a military crackdown since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

A regional special envoy to Myanmar on Thursday urged its junta to allow him to meet a shadow government it has branded "terrorists" in order to break a deadlock between the military and opponents of the coup.

A regional special envoy to Myanmar on Thursday urged its junta to allow him to meet a shadow government it has branded "terrorists" in order to break a deadlock between the military and opponents of the coup. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has led diplomatic efforts to end the chaos unleashed by last year's putsch in Myanmar, which triggered mass protests and a deadly crackdown on dissent. Cambodian foreign minister Prak Sokhonn, its new special envoy to the country, told a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers he planned to visit in March and meet with top junta officials. Also read | Myanmar junta says won't attend ASEAN summit after 'regrettable' snub He added a request to be allowed to meet with members of a "National Unity Government" dominated by lawmakers from Aung San Suu Kyi's ousted party that is working to overthrow the junta. "If Naypyidaw is not speaking with the NUG... let the special envoy be the bridge," he said, referring to Myanmar's capital. The junta has declared the NUG "terrorists" and jailed several high-ranking members of Suu Kyi's party. Most NUG members are in exile or in hiding and Prak Sokhonn gave no details on where or when any future meeting might take place, or whether he had discussed his plans with the junta. The junta did not respond to a request for comment. Also read | Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels Myanmar's top diplomat was barred from Thursday's meeting in Phnom Penh over a lack of progress in defusing violence, although Prak Sokhonn said junta representatives had been allowed to listen in on discussions. More than 1,500 people have been killed and over 12,000 arrested in a military crackdown since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.

New ASEAN Myanmar envoy says wants to meet junta opponents

Myanmar's junta on Monday said it would not attend an upcoming ASEAN summit after the bloc's "regrettable" exclusion of its top diplomat over a lack of progress in defusing post-coup violence.

ASEAN invited&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;to send a "non-political representative" to this week's foreign ministers' meeting, citing a lack of progress on a consensus agreed last year to facilitate dialogue with opponents of the coup.

The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government, with more than 1,500 civilians since killed in crackdowns on anti-junta protests, according to a local monitoring group.

The decision to exclude junta-appointed diplomat Wunna Maung Lwin from the meet in Cambodia was "regrettable", the foreign affairs ministry said in a statement on Monday.

"In this regard,&nbsp;Myanmar's inability to participate or even designate a non-political representative... is inevitable," it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-defector-recounts-heavy-losses-inflicted-by-chin-rebels-452562">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels</a>

It blamed the exclusion on unnamed member countries still holding on to the "unilateral decision" adopted by the bloc last October, when it barred junta chief Min Aung Hlaing from attending a leaders' meet.

That represented a rare rebuke from ASEAN, long seen as a toothless talking shop, but which has sought to lead diplomatic efforts to tackle the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;crisis.

Myanmar&nbsp;is increasingly isolated on the international stage, with&nbsp;Cambodian strongman ruler Hun Sen's January visit the first by any foreign leader since the generals seized power.

He met military leader Min Aung Hlaing and the pair discussed peace efforts and the junta's future plans, as well as the role of the ASEAN special envoy, according to the junta.

But violence has continued, with anti-junta groups clashing regularly with the military, and the World Bank has warned&nbsp;Myanmar's economy likely contracted by almost a fifth last year.

Myanmar's junta on Monday said it would not attend an upcoming ASEAN summit after the bloc's "regrettable" exclusion of its top diplomat over a lack of progress in defusing post-coup violence.

Myanmar's junta on Monday said it would not attend an upcoming ASEAN summit after the bloc's "regrettable" exclusion of its top diplomat over a lack of progress in defusing post-coup violence. ASEAN invited Myanmar to send a "non-political representative" to this week's foreign ministers' meeting, citing a lack of progress on a consensus agreed last year to facilitate dialogue with opponents of the coup. The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government, with more than 1,500 civilians since killed in crackdowns on anti-junta protests, according to a local monitoring group. The decision to exclude junta-appointed diplomat Wunna Maung Lwin from the meet in Cambodia was "regrettable", the foreign affairs ministry said in a statement on Monday. "In this regard, Myanmar's inability to participate or even designate a non-political representative... is inevitable," it added. Also read | Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels It blamed the exclusion on unnamed member countries still holding on to the "unilateral decision" adopted by the bloc last October, when it barred junta chief Min Aung Hlaing from attending a leaders' meet. That represented a rare rebuke from ASEAN, long seen as a toothless talking shop, but which has sought to lead diplomatic efforts to tackle the Myanmar crisis. Myanmar is increasingly isolated on the international stage, with Cambodian strongman ruler Hun Sen's January visit the first by any foreign leader since the generals seized power. He met military leader Min Aung Hlaing and the pair discussed peace efforts and the junta's future plans, as well as the role of the ASEAN special envoy, according to the junta. But violence has continued, with anti-junta groups clashing regularly with the military, and the World Bank has warned Myanmar's economy likely contracted by almost a fifth last year.

Myanmar junta says won't attend ASEAN summit after 'regrettable' snub

A&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;army&nbsp;officer who defected and fled the country has detailed battlefield&nbsp;losses&nbsp;to&nbsp;rebels&nbsp;in the southern part of&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state, with at least 50 soldiers killed and 200 badly wounded in 2021 by opposition fighters with homemade weapons.

Kaung Thu Win, a captain who defected in December, offered a rare first-hand account of intensified fighting in&nbsp;Chin, in&nbsp;Myanmar's northwest, where the military junta has faced some of the fiercest armed resistance since it seized power a year ago.

He said he switched sides after hearing reports by colleagues of military abuses during clashes last year.

Speaking in northeastern India where he and his family have fled, the 32-year-old showed Reuters his national and military identity cards and detailed 12 incidents between May and December in which soldiers were killed or wounded by&nbsp;rebels.

He also showed Reuters some 30 classified&nbsp;army&nbsp;documents he said backed up his version of recent events in southern&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state, where civilians opposed to the coup have taken up arms and are working with an established ethnic insurgent group. He based his estimate of military casualties on that information.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-new-trend-myanmar-families-disown-kin-fighting-military-rule-to-avert-oppression-451113">&nbsp;In new trend, Myanmar families disown kin fighting military rule to avert oppression</a>

The documents, stored on his mobile device, add new details of a major clash near the town of Mindat that have not previously been reported. They provide further evidence of a growing popular rebellion against&nbsp;Myanmar's military rulers that has spread across the country.

Four other&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;defectors who reviewed some of the documents said they mirrored others they had seen in terms of language, format and descriptions of combat.

Myanmar's military, known as the Tatmadaw, has acknowledged battlefield&nbsp;losses, but it has not provided details.

The Tatmadaw did not respond to requests for comment on events in&nbsp;Chin, the account given by Kaung Thu Win or the documents he produced. The military has previously described armed groups opposed to the junta as "terrorists".

The Indian home ministry did not reply to a request for comment on&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;defectors seeking refuge across the border with&nbsp;Chin.

Groups of fighters began forming in&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state in the weeks after the Feb. 1 coup, but the Tatmadaw felt the full force of the rebellion after a convoy of seven vehicles was ambushed near the town of Mindat on May 14, according to Kaung Thu Win.

In the Mindat attack, one of the biggest clashes reported so far, hundreds of rebel fighters attacked the convoy around dawn, firing at troops from hillside positions, leaving five soldiers dead and 37 personnel unaccounted for, according to one of the documents.

"We were attacked by an estimated 1,000 insurgents," read an internal field report on the fighting. "Six&nbsp;army&nbsp;trucks were burned down, and many weapons were lost."

CASUALTIES MOUNT

In addition to details about the Mindat attack, the documents shown by the former captain include maps of military facilities in southern&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state, information about&nbsp;army&nbsp;supplies and battlefield reports of skirmishes with&nbsp;rebels.

&nbsp;The fighting in the southern areas of&nbsp;Chin, involving hastily formed&nbsp;Chinland Defence Force (CDF) guerrilla groups, has been fierce.

Kaung Thu Win said at least 20&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;soldiers were killed in the May 14 ambush.

"It was only after the May 14 incident that the Tatmadaw started taking the CDF seriously," he told Reuters in an interview. "It was a meeting of ... hunting guns (used by the CDF) and modern weapons."

The military did not respond when asked whether this ambush represented a turning point.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-accused-of-burning-hundreds-of-homes-451051">Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes</a>

The captain said his position as liaison officer meant that military documents, including those detailing supplies and convoys, were provided to him by staff at the regional headquarters that oversaw his frontline outpost in&nbsp;Chin.

He said he also had access to accounts of the Mindat ambush because he was part of the military investigation into the incident.

The ex-officer did not know the outcome of the probe, but said Major Yan Naung Htoo, who was involved in the battle, was put under house arrest in Monywa around September.

Reuters has been unable to reach the officer. The military did not comment when asked about his situation or a broader probe.

A Jan. 10 statement from a CDF group in Kalay said Kaung Thu Win had handed them guns and ammunition. The group said they had led the captain and his wife to a safe area and paid him for the arms. His wife had just given birth to their first child.

A spokesman for the Kalay defence force, CDF KKG, said they paid the captain around 6 million kyat ($3,300). That was below the estimated value of 9 million for the weapons and ammunition, but the group could not afford the full amount, the spokesman added.

He said&nbsp;defectors were under no obligation to the defence group, but they ask them about Tatmadaw operations before moving them to safety.

The captain confirmed he had been paid by the CDF KKG in return for the weapons, but declined to say how much.

'ARMED INSURRECTION'

The&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military continued to suffer steady casualties throughout 2021, as guerrilla outfits across the state gained strength, according to Kaung Thu Win.

His account of the May clash underlines the scale of resistance to&nbsp;Myanmar's military. Some analysts now call the conflict a civil war.

The military calls the rebellion an "armed insurrection", and military ruler Min Aung Hlaing said there were more than 9,000 "terrorist attacks" last year. The junta said in January it had "largely restored national stability" by the second half of 2021.

Soldiers whose bodies are not immediately found following a battle are often classified as unaccounted for, Kaung Thu Win said, explaining the difference in fatalities listed in the report of the Mindat ambush - five - and his estimate of 20.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A CDF statement on Jan. 26 put the death toll among troops at 1,029 across the whole of&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;between April and December 2021. During that period, CDF groups sustained 58 fatalities, alongside 27 civilian deaths, the statement added.

Opposition groups say more than 1,000 soldiers have swapped sides in recent months.

The Tatmadaw declined to comment when asked about the figures from the captain and resistance groups.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 35 people massacred in Myanmar

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'LOVED MY JOB'

The youngest of three children born to civil servants in&nbsp;Myanmar's Yangon region, Kaung Thu Win said he entered the prestigious Defence Services Academy in 2006. Reuters could not reach the academy for comment.

Three years later, he graduated from the military university and joined Light Infantry Battalion 216, which was deployed to&nbsp;Myanmar's Karen and Shan states to fight ethnic armed groups battling for greater autonomy.

During some operations in Shan, he said he saw civilian properties destroyed, but deemed such incidents the inevitable consequence of armed conflict.

"I was proud of my work and I still loved my job," he said.

In 2016, Kaung Thu Win said he was sent to a command post in&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state's Matupi town. He said he was posted as its liaison officer at a regional command centre in Monywa when the military staged the coup last February.

He recalled seeing Tatmadaw helicopters flying in wounded troops from the front for treatment at Monywa base, he added.

In October, the military began sending reinforcements into southern&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state, taking the total number of troops in the area to some 1,200, up from 800 previously, Kaung Thu Win said. CDF fighters have also said troop numbers have increased.

Around the same time, the captain also began hearing of Tatmadaw troops torching villages along the routes their convoys would take, sending civilian populations fleeing into forested areas for safety.

"I received first-hand information (from colleagues)," he said, "I decided to defect because, after the coup, I've seen so many stories and events where the lives and possessions of citizens were targeted intentionally by the Tatmadaw."

Late last year, the United Nations, human rights groups and foreign governments raised concerns over the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military's&nbsp;heavy-handed response to uprisings in&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state.

Some rights groups warned it mirrored the Tatmadaw's brutal clamp down on Rohingya Muslims in neighbouring Rakhine state in 2017, which led to the exodus of some 730,000 people.

The military has said it was waging a legitimate campaign in Rakhine against insurgents who attacked police posts.

With Kaung Thu Win's wife still pregnant with their first child, he said the couple decided to wait before trying to leave the country.

On Dec. 22, a day after he abruptly cut communications with his colleagues, Kaung Thu Win, his wife and their infant left Monywa on a bus and travelled to the border of&nbsp;Chin&nbsp;state where they contacted&nbsp;rebels, who guided them to a safe house.

"I am satisfied because I'm not one of those soldiers that people hate," the ex-officer said, cradling his infant. "I am now a normal citizen and I'm proud of it."

A Myanmar army officer who defected and fled the country has detailed battlefield losses to rebels in the southern part of Chin state, with at least 50 soldiers killed and 200 badly wounded in 2021 by opposition fighters with homemade weapons.

A Myanmar army officer who defected and fled the country has detailed battlefield losses to rebels in the southern part of Chin state, with at least 50 soldiers killed and 200 badly wounded in 2021 by opposition fighters with homemade weapons. Kaung Thu Win, a captain who defected in December, offered a rare first-hand account of intensified fighting in Chin, in Myanmar's northwest, where the military junta has faced some of the fiercest armed resistance since it seized power a year ago. He said he switched sides after hearing reports by colleagues of military abuses during clashes last year. Speaking in northeastern India where he and his family have fled, the 32-year-old showed Reuters his national and military identity cards and detailed 12 incidents between May and December in which soldiers were killed or wounded by rebels. He also showed Reuters some 30 classified army documents he said backed up his version of recent events in southern Chin state, where civilians opposed to the coup have taken up arms and are working with an established ethnic insurgent group. He based his estimate of military casualties on that information. Also read | In new trend, Myanmar families disown kin fighting military rule to avert oppression The documents, stored on his mobile device, add new details of a major clash near the town of Mindat that have not previously been reported. They provide further evidence of a growing popular rebellion against Myanmar's military rulers that has spread across the country. Four other Myanmar defectors who reviewed some of the documents said they mirrored others they had seen in terms of language, format and descriptions of combat. Myanmar's military, known as the Tatmadaw, has acknowledged battlefield losses, but it has not provided details. The Tatmadaw did not respond to requests for comment on events in Chin, the account given by Kaung Thu Win or the documents he produced. The military has previously described armed groups opposed to the junta as "terrorists". The Indian home ministry did not reply to a request for comment on Myanmar defectors seeking refuge across the border with Chin. Groups of fighters began forming in Chin state in the weeks after the Feb. 1 coup, but the Tatmadaw felt the full force of the rebellion after a convoy of seven vehicles was ambushed near the town of Mindat on May 14, according to Kaung Thu Win. In the Mindat attack, one of the biggest clashes reported so far, hundreds of rebel fighters attacked the convoy around dawn, firing at troops from hillside positions, leaving five soldiers dead and 37 personnel unaccounted for, according to one of the documents. "We were attacked by an estimated 1,000 insurgents," read an internal field report on the fighting. "Six army trucks were burned down, and many weapons were lost." CASUALTIES MOUNT In addition to details about the Mindat attack, the documents shown by the former captain include maps of military facilities in southern Chin state, information about army supplies and battlefield reports of skirmishes with rebels. The fighting in the southern areas of Chin, involving hastily formed Chinland Defence Force (CDF) guerrilla groups, has been fierce. Kaung Thu Win said at least 20 Myanmar soldiers were killed in the May 14 ambush. "It was only after the May 14 incident that the Tatmadaw started taking the CDF seriously," he told Reuters in an interview. "It was a meeting of ... hunting guns (used by the CDF) and modern weapons." The military did not respond when asked whether this ambush represented a turning point. Also read | Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes The captain said his position as liaison officer meant that military documents, including those detailing supplies and convoys, were provided to him by staff at the regional headquarters that oversaw his frontline outpost in Chin. He said he also had access to accounts of the Mindat ambush because he was part of the military investigation into the incident. The ex-officer did not know the outcome of the probe, but said Major Yan Naung Htoo, who was involved in the battle, was put under house arrest in Monywa around September. Reuters has been unable to reach the officer. The military did not comment when asked about his situation or a broader probe. A Jan. 10 statement from a CDF group in Kalay said Kaung Thu Win had handed them guns and ammunition. The group said they had led the captain and his wife to a safe area and paid him for the arms. His wife had just given birth to their first child. A spokesman for the Kalay defence force, CDF KKG, said they paid the captain around 6 million kyat ($3,300). That was below the estimated value of 9 million for the weapons and ammunition, but the group could not afford the full amount, the spokesman added. He said defectors were under no obligation to the defence group, but they ask them about Tatmadaw operations before moving them to safety. The captain confirmed he had been paid by the CDF KKG in return for the weapons, but declined to say how much. 'ARMED INSURRECTION' The Myanmar military continued to suffer steady casualties throughout 2021, as guerrilla outfits across the state gained strength, according to Kaung Thu Win. His account of the May clash underlines the scale of resistance to Myanmar's military. Some analysts now call the conflict a civil war. The military calls the rebellion an "armed insurrection", and military ruler Min Aung Hlaing said there were more than 9,000 "terrorist attacks" last year. The junta said in January it had "largely restored national stability" by the second half of 2021. Soldiers whose bodies are not immediately found following a battle are often classified as unaccounted for, Kaung Thu Win said, explaining the difference in fatalities listed in the report of the Mindat ambush - five - and his estimate of 20. A CDF statement on Jan. 26 put the death toll among troops at 1,029 across the whole of Chin between April and December 2021. During that period, CDF groups sustained 58 fatalities, alongside 27 civilian deaths, the statement added. Opposition groups say more than 1,000 soldiers have swapped sides in recent months. The Tatmadaw declined to comment when asked about the figures from the captain and resistance groups. Watch | Gravitas: 35 people massacred in Myanmar 'LOVED MY JOB' The youngest of three children born to civil servants in Myanmar's Yangon region, Kaung Thu Win said he entered the prestigious Defence Services Academy in 2006. Reuters could not reach the academy for comment. Three years later, he graduated from the military university and joined Light Infantry Battalion 216, which was deployed to Myanmar's Karen and Shan states to fight ethnic armed groups battling for greater autonomy. During some operations in Shan, he said he saw civilian properties destroyed, but deemed such incidents the inevitable consequence of armed conflict. "I was proud of my work and I still loved my job," he said. In 2016, Kaung Thu Win said he was sent to a command post in Chin state's Matupi town. He said he was posted as its liaison officer at a regional command centre in Monywa when the military staged the coup last February. He recalled seeing Tatmadaw helicopters flying in wounded troops from the front for treatment at Monywa base, he added. In October, the military began sending reinforcements into southern Chin state, taking the total number of troops in the area to some 1,200, up from 800 previously, Kaung Thu Win said. CDF fighters have also said troop numbers have increased. Around the same time, the captain also began hearing of Tatmadaw troops torching villages along the routes their convoys would take, sending civilian populations fleeing into forested areas for safety. "I received first-hand information (from colleagues)," he said, "I decided to defect because, after the coup, I've seen so many stories and events where the lives and possessions of citizens were targeted intentionally by the Tatmadaw." Late last year, the United Nations, human rights groups and foreign governments raised concerns over the Myanmar military's heavy-handed response to uprisings in Chin state. Some rights groups warned it mirrored the Tatmadaw's brutal clamp down on Rohingya Muslims in neighbouring Rakhine state in 2017, which led to the exodus of some 730,000 people. The military has said it was waging a legitimate campaign in Rakhine against insurgents who attacked police posts. With Kaung Thu Win's wife still pregnant with their first child, he said the couple decided to wait before trying to leave the country. On Dec. 22, a day after he abruptly cut communications with his colleagues, Kaung Thu Win, his wife and their infant left Monywa on a bus and travelled to the border of Chin state where they contacted rebels, who guided them to a safe house. "I am satisfied because I'm not one of those soldiers that people hate," the ex-officer said, cradling his infant. "I am now a normal citizen and I'm proud of it."

Myanmar army defector recounts heavy losses inflicted by Chin rebels

A new trend has come up in Myanmar recently. Since November 2021, around six to seven families every day can be witnessed posting notices in the state-owned newspapers of the country. &nbsp;

What’s special about these notices is that the families have been declaring to have cut ties with their family members, such as daughters, sons, nieces, nephews and grandchildren, who have publicly opposed the ruling military junta. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-accused-of-burning-hundreds-of-homes-451051" hreflang="en">Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes</a>

The trend seems to have picked up after the army, which has seized power after a coup, announced that it would take over the properties of its opponents. It also said that it would also arrest people, giving shelter to the protesters. Numerous raids on homes had also followed the announcement. &nbsp;

A former car salesman Lin Lin Bo Bo, who has joined an armed group resisting the military rule, has been disowned by his parents in one such notice. &nbsp;

The notice, which was posted by his parents, San Win and Tin Tin Soe, in state-owned newspaper ‘The Mirror’ in November, said, "We declare we have disowned Lin Lin Bo Bo because he never listened to his parents' will." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-completes-a-year-of-return-of-military-rule-449615" hreflang="en">Myanmar completes a year of return of military rule</a>

The 26-year-old said he cried on reading the notice in the paper. "My comrades tried to reassure me that it was inevitable for families to do that under pressure. But I was so heartbroken," he told Reuters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The notices seem to be primarily intended to send a message to the authorities that they should not be held responsible for the actions of their children. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a news conference in November, while commenting on these notices, military spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said that people, who have made such declarations in newspapers, could still be charged if found to be supporting opposition to the junta. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A new trend has come up in Myanmar recently. Since November 2021, around six to seven families every day can be witnessed posting notices in the state-owned newspapers of the country.

A new trend has come up in Myanmar recently. Since November 2021, around six to seven families every day can be witnessed posting notices in the state-owned newspapers of the country. What’s special about these notices is that the families have been declaring to have cut ties with their family members, such as daughters, sons, nieces, nephews and grandchildren, who have publicly opposed the ruling military junta. Also Read: Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes The trend seems to have picked up after the army, which has seized power after a coup, announced that it would take over the properties of its opponents. It also said that it would also arrest people, giving shelter to the protesters. Numerous raids on homes had also followed the announcement. A former car salesman Lin Lin Bo Bo, who has joined an armed group resisting the military rule, has been disowned by his parents in one such notice. The notice, which was posted by his parents, San Win and Tin Tin Soe, in state-owned newspaper ‘The Mirror’ in November, said, "We declare we have disowned Lin Lin Bo Bo because he never listened to his parents' will." Also Read: Myanmar completes a year of return of military rule The 26-year-old said he cried on reading the notice in the paper. "My comrades tried to reassure me that it was inevitable for families to do that under pressure. But I was so heartbroken," he told Reuters. The notices seem to be primarily intended to send a message to the authorities that they should not be held responsible for the actions of their children. In a news conference in November, while commenting on these notices, military spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said that people, who have made such declarations in newspapers, could still be charged if found to be supporting opposition to the junta. (With inputs from agencies)

In new trend, Myanmar families disown kin fighting military rule to avert oppression

Villagers in Myanmar have accused the junta troops of burning hundreds of homes in the country's northwest region. A woman from Bin village, a site of recent clashes, said that troops had arrived on Monday.&nbsp;

"They shelled artillery and fired guns before coming in," she said. On the condition of anonymity, she further revealed that the troops burnt around 200 houses, including hers.

"We could not bring anything with us. We took some warm clothes only, and then we just ran away," she added.&nbsp;

As per reports by local media, hundreds of homes have been destroyed in several villages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-completes-a-year-of-return-of-military-rule-449615">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar completes a year of return of military rule</a>

Myanmar's military toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1 last year and seized control of the country which has already seen years of military rule in previous decades.

The military coup in Myanmar was followed by countrywide pro-democracy protests and unrest. The protests were brutally put down by the military regime.&nbsp;

On February 1 this year, people in Myanmar marked one year of the military coup with what were called 'silent strikes' with streets in the cities nearly deserted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Villagers in Myanmar have accused the junta troops of burning hundreds of homes in the country's northwest region. A woman from Bin village, a site of recent clashes, said that troops had arrived on Monday.

Villagers in Myanmar have accused the junta troops of burning hundreds of homes in the country's northwest region. A woman from Bin village, a site of recent clashes, said that troops had arrived on Monday. "They shelled artillery and fired guns before coming in," she said. On the condition of anonymity, she further revealed that the troops burnt around 200 houses, including hers. "We could not bring anything with us. We took some warm clothes only, and then we just ran away," she added. As per reports by local media, hundreds of homes have been destroyed in several villages. Also read | Myanmar completes a year of return of military rule Myanmar's military toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1 last year and seized control of the country which has already seen years of military rule in previous decades. The military coup in Myanmar was followed by countrywide pro-democracy protests and unrest. The protests were brutally put down by the military regime. On February 1 this year, people in Myanmar marked one year of the military coup with what were called 'silent strikes' with streets in the cities nearly deserted. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar junta accused of burning hundreds of homes

Ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi returned to a junta court on Friday after skipping a previous hearing because she felt unwell, a source with knowledge of the case said.

Suu Kyi has been detained since her civilian government was ousted in a coup last year that triggered mass protests and a bloody military crackdown, with more than 1,500 civilians killed, according to a local monitoring group.

Cut off from the world except for brief meetings with her legal team and court appearances, the Nobel laureate faces a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years.

She skipped Thursday's hearing in her trial on charges of breaching the official secrets act because she felt "dizzy", a source with knowledge of the case said.

Detained Australian academic Sean Turnell is a co-defendant alongside Suu Kyi in that case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyi-convicted-again-what-now-443505">Also read |&nbsp;Aung San Suu Kyi convicted again, what now?</a>

Suu Kyi returned on Friday for the latest hearing in one of her corruption trials, related to the leasing of a helicopter, the source said.

"Now she is well," the source added.

The 76-year-old Suu Kyi missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October her lawyer said her health had suffered from her frequent appearances before the junta-run court.

Journalists are barred from the proceedings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw and her lawyers have been barred from speaking to the press.

On Thursday the junta announced it had filed an eleventh corruption charge against Suu Kyi for allegedly receiving $550,000 as a donation for a charity foundation named after her mother.

She has already been sentenced to six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she will remain under house arrest while she fights other charges.

Ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi returned to a junta court on Friday after skipping a previous hearing because she felt unwell, a source with knowledge of the case said.

Ousted Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi returned to a junta court on Friday after skipping a previous hearing because she felt unwell, a source with knowledge of the case said. Suu Kyi has been detained since her civilian government was ousted in a coup last year that triggered mass protests and a bloody military crackdown, with more than 1,500 civilians killed, according to a local monitoring group. Cut off from the world except for brief meetings with her legal team and court appearances, the Nobel laureate faces a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years. She skipped Thursday's hearing in her trial on charges of breaching the official secrets act because she felt "dizzy", a source with knowledge of the case said. Detained Australian academic Sean Turnell is a co-defendant alongside Suu Kyi in that case. Also read | Aung San Suu Kyi convicted again, what now? Suu Kyi returned on Friday for the latest hearing in one of her corruption trials, related to the leasing of a helicopter, the source said. "Now she is well," the source added. The 76-year-old Suu Kyi missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October her lawyer said her health had suffered from her frequent appearances before the junta-run court. Journalists are barred from the proceedings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw and her lawyers have been barred from speaking to the press. On Thursday the junta announced it had filed an eleventh corruption charge against Suu Kyi for allegedly receiving $550,000 as a donation for a charity foundation named after her mother. She has already been sentenced to six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she will remain under house arrest while she fights other charges.

Myanmar's Suu Kyi returns to junta court after skipping previous hearing

In a fresh diplomatic blow to Myanmar's foreign minister, the ASEAN has blocked the Myanmar's military leader from the upcoming meeting which is scheduled to take place from the 16-17 February.

ASEAN to exclude Myanmar foreign minister from meeting

A year on and Myanmar's military government has filed an eleventh corruption charge against former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, this is the latest indictment against the Nobel laureate who faces over 150 years in prison. The latest case was a corruption charge for allegedly receiving 550,000 as a donation for a charity foundation.

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi faces new charge amid fresh violence

Marking one year since the military seized power and the country descended into chaos, on Monday a new set of sanctions was imposed by the United States, Britain, and Canada against additional officials in Myanmar.

The three nations, which have already imposed sanctions on commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing and other members of the junta, jointly targeted judicial officials involved in the prosecution of ousted Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-slaps-election-fraud-charges-against-aung-san-suu-kyi-449305">Myanmar junta slaps election fraud charges against Aung San Suu Kyi</a>

In addition, Washington has sanctioned a directorate that purchases weapons for the junta from overseas. It also has sanctioned an alleged arms dealer Tay Za, and his two adult sons; and a company KT Services &amp; Logistics Company Ltd and its Chief Executive Jonathan Myo Kyaw Thaung that it believes provides financial support to the junta.

Since the Feb. 1, 2021, coup, Suu Kyi and members of her National League for Democracy (NLD) party have been detained by the military. Military officials claimed fraud in the NLD's landslide victory in the November 2020 election. However, Monitoring groups said the vote reflected the wishes of the country's residents.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the coordinated action shows the international community's support for Myanmar and will "further promote accountability for the coup and the violence perpetrated by the military," citing the deaths of nearly 1,500 people and the detention of 10,000 by a military attempting to consolidate control.

As part of its investigations into atrocities committed over the past year, UN investigators said on Monday that they are preparing files that could facilitate prosecutions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/suu-kyi-indispensable-for-democracy-in-myanmar-says-the-philippines-445265">Suu Kyi 'indispensable' for democracy in Myanmar, says the Philippines</a>

"Those who are considering committing crimes should be aware that serious international crimes have no statute of limitations," Nicholas Koumjian, head of the Geneva-based Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, said in a statement.

US Treasury said that seven individuals and two entities have been added to its sanctions list. Among them is the junta's attorney general, Thida Oo, whose office it alleged crafted politically motivated charges against Suu Kyi.&nbsp;

The Treasury also named the Myanmar Supreme Court's chief justice and the chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission, who it said were also involved in prosecuting Suu Kyi and NLD leaders.

In general, Americans are barred from doing business with those blacklisted by the action, their US assets are frozen.

Watch | Top justice officials hit with fresh Myanmar sanctions one year after military coup

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/top-justice-officials-hit-with-fresh-myanmar-sanctions-one-year-after-military-coup-449384/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"As long as the regime continues to deny the people of Burma their democratic voice, we will continue to impose further costs on the military and its supporters," US President Joe Biden said in a statement on Monday condemning Myanmar's military rulers.

Canada announced that it would also add the three judicial officials to its sanctions list. The British government has announced that it will list Myanmar's attorney general, the chair of the corruption commission, and the chair of Myanmar's election commission, appointed by the junta.

(With inputs from agencies)

Marking one year since the military seized power and the country descended into chaos, on Monday a new set of sanctions was imposed by the United States, Britain, and Canada against additional officials in Myanmar.

Marking one year since the military seized power and the country descended into chaos, on Monday a new set of sanctions was imposed by the United States, Britain, and Canada against additional officials in Myanmar. The three nations, which have already imposed sanctions on commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing and other members of the junta, jointly targeted judicial officials involved in the prosecution of ousted Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Also read | Myanmar junta slaps election fraud charges against Aung San Suu Kyi In addition, Washington has sanctioned a directorate that purchases weapons for the junta from overseas. It also has sanctioned an alleged arms dealer Tay Za, and his two adult sons; and a company KT Services & Logistics Company Ltd and its Chief Executive Jonathan Myo Kyaw Thaung that it believes provides financial support to the junta. Since the Feb. 1, 2021, coup, Suu Kyi and members of her National League for Democracy (NLD) party have been detained by the military. Military officials claimed fraud in the NLD's landslide victory in the November 2020 election. However, Monitoring groups said the vote reflected the wishes of the country's residents. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the coordinated action shows the international community's support for Myanmar and will "further promote accountability for the coup and the violence perpetrated by the military," citing the deaths of nearly 1,500 people and the detention of 10,000 by a military attempting to consolidate control. As part of its investigations into atrocities committed over the past year, UN investigators said on Monday that they are preparing files that could facilitate prosecutions. Also read | Suu Kyi 'indispensable' for democracy in Myanmar, says the Philippines "Those who are considering committing crimes should be aware that serious international crimes have no statute of limitations," Nicholas Koumjian, head of the Geneva-based Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, said in a statement. US Treasury said that seven individuals and two entities have been added to its sanctions list. Among them is the junta's attorney general, Thida Oo, whose office it alleged crafted politically motivated charges against Suu Kyi. The Treasury also named the Myanmar Supreme Court's chief justice and the chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission, who it said were also involved in prosecuting Suu Kyi and NLD leaders. In general, Americans are barred from doing business with those blacklisted by the action, their US assets are frozen. Watch | Top justice officials hit with fresh Myanmar sanctions one year after military coup "As long as the regime continues to deny the people of Burma their democratic voice, we will continue to impose further costs on the military and its supporters," US President Joe Biden said in a statement on Monday condemning Myanmar's military rulers. Canada announced that it would also add the three judicial officials to its sanctions list. The British government has announced that it will list Myanmar's attorney general, the chair of the corruption commission, and the chair of Myanmar's election commission, appointed by the junta. (With inputs from agencies)

One year since the coup, US, Britain, Canada impose fresh sanctions on Myanmar officials

On the one-year anniversary of a military coup in Myanmar, the United states, Britain and Canada have hit top Myanmar justice officials with coordinated sanctions as part of a joint action. With the United Kingdom and Canada, US has designated seven individuals and two entities connected to Burma's military regime .

Top justice officials hit with fresh Myanmar sanctions one year after military coup

People in Myanmar marked one year of the military coup with what were called as 'silent strikes' with streets in the cities nearly deserted. Myanmar's military toppled civillian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1 last year and seized control of the country which has already seen years of military rule in previous decades.

The United States, Britain and Canada imposed new sanctions on the military and joined other countries in calling for a global halt in arms sales to Myanmar, a year after Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government was overthrown.

The military coup in Myanmar was followed by countrywide pro-democracy protests and unrest. The protests were brutally put down by the military regime.

Since its bloody suppression of protests in the weeks following the coup, the military has faced armed resistance on multiple fronts in the countryside from groups allied with the ousted government.

On Tuesday, an explosion took placed during a procession of military supporters in the eastern border town of Tachileik, two witnesses told Reuters. The blast killed two people, said one of the witnesses, and wounded more than 30 others.

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing extended a state of emergency imposed at the time of the coup for a further six months, state media announced on Tuesday, amid threats from "internal and external saboteurs" and "terrorist attacks and destruction".

Activists urged people to stay indoors and businesses to close on Tuesday in a silent show of defiance, despite warnings of arrests, jail and a seizure of businesses.

"We might be arrested and spend our life in jail if we're lucky. We might be tortured and killed if we're unlucky," saidyouth activist Nan Lin.

STREETS QUIET

Images on social media showed quiet streets in various cities including Mandalay, Magway, Myitkyina and Yangon, where pictures on a page put up by strike organisers later showed a small protest at which people threw red paint on the ground.

Pictures on an online portal and Telegram channel supportive of the military showed pro-junta rallies in the central town of Tase, and the capital, Naypyitaw, where thousands attended a rally, some dancing and holding aloft photographs of Min Aung Hlaing, with banners wishing him good health.

State media said the military was striving to hold an election when the country was "peaceful and stable".

(With inputs from agencies)

People in Myanmar marked one year of the military coup with what were called as 'silent strikes' with streets in the cities nearly deserted. Myanmar's military toppled civillian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1 last year and seized control of the country which has already seen years of military rule in previous decades.

People in Myanmar marked one year of the military coup with what were called as 'silent strikes' with streets in the cities nearly deserted. Myanmar's military toppled civillian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1 last year and seized control of the country which has already seen years of military rule in previous decades. The United States, Britain and Canada imposed new sanctions on the military and joined other countries in calling for a global halt in arms sales to Myanmar, a year after Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government was overthrown. The military coup in Myanmar was followed by countrywide pro-democracy protests and unrest. The protests were brutally put down by the military regime. Since its bloody suppression of protests in the weeks following the coup, the military has faced armed resistance on multiple fronts in the countryside from groups allied with the ousted government. On Tuesday, an explosion took placed during a procession of military supporters in the eastern border town of Tachileik, two witnesses told Reuters. The blast killed two people, said one of the witnesses, and wounded more than 30 others. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing extended a state of emergency imposed at the time of the coup for a further six months, state media announced on Tuesday, amid threats from "internal and external saboteurs" and "terrorist attacks and destruction". Activists urged people to stay indoors and businesses to close on Tuesday in a silent show of defiance, despite warnings of arrests, jail and a seizure of businesses. "We might be arrested and spend our life in jail if we're lucky. We might be tortured and killed if we're unlucky," saidyouth activist Nan Lin. STREETS QUIET Images on social media showed quiet streets in various cities including Mandalay, Magway, Myitkyina and Yangon, where pictures on a page put up by strike organisers later showed a small protest at which people threw red paint on the ground. Pictures on an online portal and Telegram channel supportive of the military showed pro-junta rallies in the central town of Tase, and the capital, Naypyitaw, where thousands attended a rally, some dancing and holding aloft photographs of Min Aung Hlaing, with banners wishing him good health. State media said the military was striving to hold an election when the country was "peaceful and stable". (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar completes a year of return of military rule

From coup to the jailing of Suu Kyi, here's a look at Myanmar's year of turmoil

Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been charged by the military junta with influencing election officials during 2020 polls, said AFP citing sources. These charges have been slapped against her a year after Myanmar military toppled her government in a military coup.

Suu Kyi, 76, has been detained since the February 1 coup last year that triggered mass protests and a bloody crackdown on dissent with more than 1,500 civilians killed, according to a local monitoring group.

The Nobel laureate is facing a raft of charges -- including violating the country's official secrets laws -- and if convicted of all of them could face sentences tallying more than 100 years in prison.

She will face a further trial on charges of influencing the country's election commission during the 2020 polls that saw her party defeat a military-aligned rival, a source with knowledge of the case said.&nbsp;

The case will be wrapped up within six months, the source added.&nbsp;

Former president and stalwart of the National League for Democracy (NLD) party Win Myint will face the same charge, the source said.

Several senior members of the national electoral commission have also been arrested since the coup, accused of masterminding the NLD's landslide victory.

The junta cancelled the results of the 2020 election in July last year, saying it had found some 11.3 million instances of fraud.

Independent monitors said the polls were largely free and fair.&nbsp;

The junta has promised to hold another election by August 2023 if the country -- currently riven by fighting between the military and anti-coup fighters -- is restored.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Tuesday anniversary of the putsch, the junta has warned that noisy protests or sharing "propaganda" against the military could be charged with high treason or under the anti-terrorism law.

On Monday ousted Myanmar lawmakers from a shadow "National Unity Government" addressed the media in Paris.

The human rights spokesman Aung Myo Min urged the international community to implement an arms embargo and tighten economic sanctions to cut off all trade with the regime.

Suu Kyi has already been sentenced to six years in jail for illegally importing and owning walkie talkies, incitement against the military and breaking Covid-19 rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been charged by the military junta with influencing election officials during 2020 polls, said AFP citing sources. These charges have been slapped against her a year after Myanmar military toppled her government in a military coup.

Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been charged by the military junta with influencing election officials during 2020 polls, said AFP citing sources. These charges have been slapped against her a year after Myanmar military toppled her government in a military coup. Suu Kyi, 76, has been detained since the February 1 coup last year that triggered mass protests and a bloody crackdown on dissent with more than 1,500 civilians killed, according to a local monitoring group. The Nobel laureate is facing a raft of charges -- including violating the country's official secrets laws -- and if convicted of all of them could face sentences tallying more than 100 years in prison. She will face a further trial on charges of influencing the country's election commission during the 2020 polls that saw her party defeat a military-aligned rival, a source with knowledge of the case said. The case will be wrapped up within six months, the source added. Former president and stalwart of the National League for Democracy (NLD) party Win Myint will face the same charge, the source said. Several senior members of the national electoral commission have also been arrested since the coup, accused of masterminding the NLD's landslide victory. The junta cancelled the results of the 2020 election in July last year, saying it had found some 11.3 million instances of fraud. Independent monitors said the polls were largely free and fair. The junta has promised to hold another election by August 2023 if the country -- currently riven by fighting between the military and anti-coup fighters -- is restored. Ahead of the Tuesday anniversary of the putsch, the junta has warned that noisy protests or sharing "propaganda" against the military could be charged with high treason or under the anti-terrorism law. On Monday ousted Myanmar lawmakers from a shadow "National Unity Government" addressed the media in Paris. The human rights spokesman Aung Myo Min urged the international community to implement an arms embargo and tighten economic sanctions to cut off all trade with the regime. Suu Kyi has already been sentenced to six years in jail for illegally importing and owning walkie talkies, incitement against the military and breaking Covid-19 rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar junta slaps election fraud charges against Aung San Suu Kyi

Due to the "worsening" human rights situation and failing rule of law after the country’s military seized power in a coup last year, energy giants TotalEnergies and Chevron Corp have announced their pullout from Myanmar.&nbsp;

The announcement came a day after France's Total called for targeted international sanctions on Myanmar's oil and gas sector, requiring all revenues to be placed in escrow, in an effort to cut off the army's main source of foreign currency funding after it overthrew Myanmar's elected government in February 2021.&nbsp;

Since the coup, Myanmar security forces have killed more than 1,400 people and arrested thousands to try to crush resistance, local non-governmental organisation Assistance Association for Political Prisoners said. The Junta disputes the figures.

"The situation, in terms of human rights and more generally the rule of law, which have kept worsening in Myanmar since the coup of February 2021, has led us to reassess the situation and no longer allows&nbsp;TotalEnergies&nbsp;to make a sufficiently positive contribution in the country," the French energy group&nbsp;TotalEnergies said in a statement. 
 
"In light of circumstances in Myanmar, we (will) enable a planned and orderly transition that will lead to an exit from the country," Chevron spokesman Cameron Van Ast said in the statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lankas-energy-minister-warns-of-long-power-cuts-if-failed-to-secure-loan-by-march-2022-446512">Also read |&nbsp;Lanka’s energy minister warns of long power cuts if failed to secure loan by March 2022</a>

The junta seized power alleging widespread fraud in a November 2020 election won by a landslide by the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. International and local monitoring groups said there were no major irregularities with the vote.

Total Energies did not quantify the financial impact of the withdrawal, but said the country represented a minor part of its revenues.

TotalEnergies&nbsp;said it had notified its partners in Myanmar of its withdrawal, which will become effective at the latest at the expiry of a 6-month contractual period. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Due to the "worsening" human rights situation and failing rule of law after the country’s military seized power in a coup last year, energy giants TotalEnergies and Chevron Corp have announced their pullout from Myanmar.

Due to the "worsening" human rights situation and failing rule of law after the country’s military seized power in a coup last year, energy giants TotalEnergies and Chevron Corp have announced their pullout from Myanmar. The announcement came a day after France's Total called for targeted international sanctions on Myanmar's oil and gas sector, requiring all revenues to be placed in escrow, in an effort to cut off the army's main source of foreign currency funding after it overthrew Myanmar's elected government in February 2021. Since the coup, Myanmar security forces have killed more than 1,400 people and arrested thousands to try to crush resistance, local non-governmental organisation Assistance Association for Political Prisoners said. The Junta disputes the figures. "The situation, in terms of human rights and more generally the rule of law, which have kept worsening in Myanmar since the coup of February 2021, has led us to reassess the situation and no longer allows TotalEnergies to make a sufficiently positive contribution in the country," the French energy group TotalEnergies said in a statement. "In light of circumstances in Myanmar, we (will) enable a planned and orderly transition that will lead to an exit from the country," Chevron spokesman Cameron Van Ast said in the statement. Also read | Lanka’s energy minister warns of long power cuts if failed to secure loan by March 2022 The junta seized power alleging widespread fraud in a November 2020 election won by a landslide by the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. International and local monitoring groups said there were no major irregularities with the vote. Total Energies did not quantify the financial impact of the withdrawal, but said the country represented a minor part of its revenues. TotalEnergies said it had notified its partners in Myanmar of its withdrawal, which will become effective at the latest at the expiry of a 6-month contractual period. (With inputs from agencies)

Oil giants Total, Chevron exit Myanmar due to human rights abuses

A former lawmaker from Aung San Suu Kyi’s ousted political party was sentenced to death for terror-related offences, Myanmar's junta said in a statement on Friday.

Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a member of the National League for Democracy who was arrested in November, has been "sentenced to the death penalty today under anti-terrorism act", the junta said.

Prominent democracy activist Kyaw Min Yu – also known as “Jimmy” —received the same sentence from the military tribunal, the junta statement said.

Phyo Zeyar Thaw - whose real name is Maung Kyaw - was arrested at an apartment in the commercial hub Yangon following a "tip-off and cooperation from dutiful citizens", the junta's information team said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyis-jail-term-reduced-by-two-years-reports-434658">Aung San Suu Kyi's jail term reduced by two years: Reports</a>

He had been accused of orchestrating several attacks on regime forces, including the brazen shooting on a commuter train in Yangon in August that killed five policemen.

Thaw was elected to Parliament from Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party in the 2015 elections that ushered in a transition to civilian rule, although short-lived.

Since taking power, the junta has sentenced dozens of anti-coup activists to death as part of its crackdown on dissent, but Myanmar has not carried out an execution for decades, reports AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-leader-suu-kyi-testifies-before-junta-court-424249">Myanmar leader Suu Kyi testifies before junta court</a>

The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the coup sparked massive protests and a bloody military crackdown on dissent, which has killed more than 1,400 people according to a local monitoring group.

&nbsp;Suu Kyi had been in dentition since February last year when her government was forced out in an early morning coup.

On January 10, the Nobel laureate was charged in three criminal charges, sentencing her to four years in prison.

The 76-year-old was found guilty of two charges related to illegally importing and owning walkie-talkies and one of breaking coronavirus rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

A former lawmaker from Aung San Suu Kyi’s ousted political party was sentenced to death for terror-related offences, Myanmar's junta said in a statement on Friday.

A former lawmaker from Aung San Suu Kyi’s ousted political party was sentenced to death for terror-related offences, Myanmar's junta said in a statement on Friday. Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a member of the National League for Democracy who was arrested in November, has been "sentenced to the death penalty today under anti-terrorism act", the junta said. Prominent democracy activist Kyaw Min Yu – also known as “Jimmy” —received the same sentence from the military tribunal, the junta statement said. Phyo Zeyar Thaw - whose real name is Maung Kyaw - was arrested at an apartment in the commercial hub Yangon following a "tip-off and cooperation from dutiful citizens", the junta's information team said. Also read | Aung San Suu Kyi's jail term reduced by two years: Reports He had been accused of orchestrating several attacks on regime forces, including the brazen shooting on a commuter train in Yangon in August that killed five policemen. Thaw was elected to Parliament from Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party in the 2015 elections that ushered in a transition to civilian rule, although short-lived. Since taking power, the junta has sentenced dozens of anti-coup activists to death as part of its crackdown on dissent, but Myanmar has not carried out an execution for decades, reports AFP. Also read | Myanmar leader Suu Kyi testifies before junta court The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the coup sparked massive protests and a bloody military crackdown on dissent, which has killed more than 1,400 people according to a local monitoring group. Suu Kyi had been in dentition since February last year when her government was forced out in an early morning coup. On January 10, the Nobel laureate was charged in three criminal charges, sentencing her to four years in prison. The 76-year-old was found guilty of two charges related to illegally importing and owning walkie-talkies and one of breaking coronavirus rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-lawmaker from Suu Kyi’s ousted political party sentenced to death

The Philippine foreign minister said on Sunday that Myanmar's deposed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi was 'indispensable' for restoring democracy in the country.

Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government was ousted in a military coup on February 1 last year. She was sentenced to four years in prison after having been convicted on January 10.

The junta court has since hit Suu Kyi, 76, with five new corruption charges -- adding to a slew of cases against her.&nbsp;

While several Western countries, including the United States and Norway, have slammed the latest sentencing, Southeast Asian leaders have been largely silent.&nbsp;

Philippines Foreign Minister Teodoro Locsin broke ranks Sunday, tweeting he had adopted "as my own" a statement by his Norwegian counterpart Anniken Huitfeldt that condemned the sentencing.&nbsp;

"Suu Kyi is indispensable in a democratic restoration that will pose no threat of anarchy, dissolution, and civil conflict," Locsin said, adding Myanmar's armed forces "have nothing to fear".

Locsin also backed the recent visit to Myanmar by Cambodia's strongman ruler Hun Sen -- the first by a foreign leader since the coup -- highlighting regional tensions over how to deal with the crisis-hit nation.

Critics said the visit by Hun Sen, whose country holds the rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), risked legitimising the junta and undermining efforts to isolate the generals.&nbsp;

But Locsin said Hun Sen achieved "headways" and "deserves wholehearted support".

ASEAN has sought to help Myanmar, agreeing to a "five-point consensus" last year aimed at defusing the crisis, but the generals have shown little sign of changing course.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippine foreign minister said on Sunday that Myanmar's deposed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi was 'indispensable' for restoring democracy in the country.

The Philippine foreign minister said on Sunday that Myanmar's deposed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi was 'indispensable' for restoring democracy in the country. Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government was ousted in a military coup on February 1 last year. She was sentenced to four years in prison after having been convicted on January 10. The junta court has since hit Suu Kyi, 76, with five new corruption charges -- adding to a slew of cases against her. While several Western countries, including the United States and Norway, have slammed the latest sentencing, Southeast Asian leaders have been largely silent. Philippines Foreign Minister Teodoro Locsin broke ranks Sunday, tweeting he had adopted "as my own" a statement by his Norwegian counterpart Anniken Huitfeldt that condemned the sentencing. "Suu Kyi is indispensable in a democratic restoration that will pose no threat of anarchy, dissolution, and civil conflict," Locsin said, adding Myanmar's armed forces "have nothing to fear". Locsin also backed the recent visit to Myanmar by Cambodia's strongman ruler Hun Sen -- the first by a foreign leader since the coup -- highlighting regional tensions over how to deal with the crisis-hit nation. Critics said the visit by Hun Sen, whose country holds the rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), risked legitimising the junta and undermining efforts to isolate the generals. But Locsin said Hun Sen achieved "headways" and "deserves wholehearted support". ASEAN has sought to help Myanmar, agreeing to a "five-point consensus" last year aimed at defusing the crisis, but the generals have shown little sign of changing course. (With inputs from agencies)

Suu Kyi 'indispensable' for democracy in Myanmar, says the Philippines

Intense fighting between the military junta and rebel groups have forced hundreds of monks to flee temples in eastern Myanmar as crackdown intensifies, according to media reports.

The United Nations (UN) estimates that almost 90,000 people have fled, with local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) placing that figure far higher at 170,000.

The country has been in turmoil for the past 11 months since the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi was overthrown in a coup on February 11.

The sudden takeover by the military triggered widespread protests with crackdowns killing more than 1,400 people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/convicted-on-new-charges-suu-kyi-gets-four-year-jail-in-myanmar-says-report-443486">Convicted on new charges, Suu Kyi gets four-year jail in Myanmar, says report</a>

The coup was severely criticised by the global community while raising concern over the end of tentative political reforms since the end of decades of military rule.

Since then, several rebel groups have sprung up to oppose the regime.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyi-convicted-again-what-now-443505">Aung San Suu Kyi convicted again, what now?</a>

According to news agency AFP, two eastern Myanmar towns —Demoso and Loikaw—which are rebel strongholds, saw the maximum exodus as the military continued&nbsp;to crackdown against rebels.

The UN has also noted that fighting has intensified in Kayah and Kayin states since December.

"More than half the population of Loikaw township has been internally displaced," the UN said, with even the holy men of the town scattering as the fighting raged.

"It was impossible for us to stay there," a Buddhist monk told AFP, adding that around 30 monasteries were fleeing - an unusual sight in a nation where they are revered and temples are considered safe havens.

Earlier this week, UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar Tom Andrews called on junta leader Min Aung Hlaing to "halt the air and ground attacks" on Loikaw, lift the blockade of those seeking to escape, and allow aid to get through.

(With inputs from agencies)

Intense fighting between the military junta and rebel groups have forced hundreds of monks to flee temples in eastern Myanmar as crackdown intensifies, according to media reports.

Intense fighting between the military junta and rebel groups have forced hundreds of monks to flee temples in eastern Myanmar as crackdown intensifies, according to media reports. The United Nations (UN) estimates that almost 90,000 people have fled, with local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) placing that figure far higher at 170,000. The country has been in turmoil for the past 11 months since the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi was overthrown in a coup on February 11. The sudden takeover by the military triggered widespread protests with crackdowns killing more than 1,400 people. Also read | Convicted on new charges, Suu Kyi gets four-year jail in Myanmar, says report The coup was severely criticised by the global community while raising concern over the end of tentative political reforms since the end of decades of military rule. Since then, several rebel groups have sprung up to oppose the regime. Also read | Aung San Suu Kyi convicted again, what now? According to news agency AFP, two eastern Myanmar towns —Demoso and Loikaw—which are rebel strongholds, saw the maximum exodus as the military continued to crackdown against rebels. The UN has also noted that fighting has intensified in Kayah and Kayin states since December. "More than half the population of Loikaw township has been internally displaced," the UN said, with even the holy men of the town scattering as the fighting raged. "It was impossible for us to stay there," a Buddhist monk told AFP, adding that around 30 monasteries were fleeing - an unusual sight in a nation where they are revered and temples are considered safe havens. Earlier this week, UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar Tom Andrews called on junta leader Min Aung Hlaing to "halt the air and ground attacks" on Loikaw, lift the blockade of those seeking to escape, and allow aid to get through. (With inputs from agencies)

Fight between military and rebels intensifies as hundreds of monks flee Myanmar: Report

Myanmar's military is expected to challenge the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice on allegations of a Rohingya genocide.

Myanmar's military to challenge the jurisdiction of the ICJ on Rohingya genocide

Since coup, Myanmar’s junta has been accused of coming up with false charges against ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the latest round of a legal onslaught, a junta court in Myanmar convicted Suu Kyi of three criminal charges on Monday, an AFP report said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

She has also been sentenced to four years in jail. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-myanmar-cambodian-pm-met-with-a-red-carpet-welcome-and-chants-of-we-dont-need-you-442896" hreflang="en">In Myanmar, Cambodian PM met with a red-carpet welcome and chants of 'We don't need you'</a>

The 76-year-old leader was found guilty of two charges related to illegally importing and owning walkie-talkies and one of breaking rules of coronavirus, a source, who has knowledge of the case told AFP. &nbsp;

On December 17, Suu Kyi had appeared in court wearing prison clothes. The Nobel laureate was wearing the white top and brown wraparound longyi, which is the uniform for prisoners in the South Asian country as mentioned by Reuters report. &nbsp;&nbsp;

She was sentenced to two years' detention for incitement against the military and breaching coronavirus rules. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hard-for-ordinary-people-high-prices-poverty-forces-thousands-in-myanmar-to-illegally-cross-into-thailand-442631" hreflang="en">'Hard for ordinary people': High prices, poverty forces thousands in Myanmar to illegally cross into Thailand</a>

Myanmar has been in chaos and since February when Suu Kyi's civilian government was ousted by the military junta. Pro-democracy protests erupted across the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Junta opposed the protests with a brutal crackdown that has left more than 1,300 people dead, hundreds are injured, thousands arrested if reports by according to a local monitor are to be believed. There's no certainty over how the prisoners are being treated. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Since coup, Myanmar’s junta has been accused of coming up with false charges against ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. In the latest round of a legal onslaught, a junta court in Myanmar convicted Suu Kyi of three criminal charges on Monday, an AFP report said.

Since coup, Myanmar’s junta has been accused of coming up with false charges against ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. In the latest round of a legal onslaught, a junta court in Myanmar convicted Suu Kyi of three criminal charges on Monday, an AFP report said. She has also been sentenced to four years in jail. Also Read: In Myanmar, Cambodian PM met with a red-carpet welcome and chants of 'We don't need you' The 76-year-old leader was found guilty of two charges related to illegally importing and owning walkie-talkies and one of breaking rules of coronavirus, a source, who has knowledge of the case told AFP. On December 17, Suu Kyi had appeared in court wearing prison clothes. The Nobel laureate was wearing the white top and brown wraparound longyi, which is the uniform for prisoners in the South Asian country as mentioned by Reuters report. She was sentenced to two years' detention for incitement against the military and breaching coronavirus rules. Also Read: 'Hard for ordinary people': High prices, poverty forces thousands in Myanmar to illegally cross into Thailand Myanmar has been in chaos and since February when Suu Kyi's civilian government was ousted by the military junta. Pro-democracy protests erupted across the country. Junta opposed the protests with a brutal crackdown that has left more than 1,300 people dead, hundreds are injured, thousands arrested if reports by according to a local monitor are to be believed. There's no certainty over how the prisoners are being treated. (With inputs from agencies)

Convicted on new charges, Suu Kyi gets four-year jail in Myanmar, says report

Protests and rallies were held across Myanmar as Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen met military ruler Min Aung Hlaing.

Cambodian PM Hun Sen's meet with Myanmar Junta Chief sparks protests

Protests were held across Myanmar against Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen's visit to the country.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen meets with Junta Chief amid protests in Myanmar

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen arrived in Myanmar on Friday to an honour guard and red carpet. His visit prompted protests by coup opponents in other parts of the country over fears the visit will grant the military junta more legitimacy.

Myanmar's army overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government on February 1 last year, triggering months of protests and bloodshed. The Cambodian PM's two-day visit is the first by a government official to the country since the military overthrew the government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-army-is-accused-of-massacring-dozens-of-civilians-440516">Myanmar’s army is accused of massacring dozens of civilians</a>

Currently, Cambodia chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which has been trying to broker a peace deal in Myanmar and which adopted a five-point "consensus" peace plan in April.

The junta's failure to implement the plan has enraged some ASEAN nations, including Indonesia.

Many opponents of military rule in Myanmar have claimed that Hun Sen is supporting the junta by making the trip.

On social media, images and videos showed protesters in Depayin, about 300 kilometres north of the capital, Naypyidaw burning a poster of Hun Sen, chanting "Hun Sen don't come to Myanmar. We don't want dictator Hun Sen".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As <a href="https://twitter.com/hunsencambodia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hunsencambodia</a>, Prime Minister of Cambodia touched down in Myanmar, Australia Myanmar diaspora community &amp; Cambodia community staged protests in front of the embassy of Myanmar and Cambodia in Canberra. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2022Jan7Coup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2022Jan7Coup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhatsHappeningInMyanmar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhatsHappeningInMyanmar</a> <a href="https://t.co/UMa1dgMr3z">pic.twitter.com/UMa1dgMr3z</a>
— Phyo (@ThetMarPhyo10) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThetMarPhyo10/status/1479387755008327680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Further protests were reported in the second city of Mandalay, as well as in the regions of Tanintharyi and Monywa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-conflict-torn-myanmar-more-than-30-killed-bodies-burnt-say-reports-439904">In conflict-torn Myanmar, more than 30 killed, bodies burnt, say reports</a>

In a speech on Wednesday, Hun Sen urged everyone in Myanmar to exercise restraint and follow the peace plan.

"Brothers in Myanmar, do you want your country to fall into a real civil war or want it solved?" he said.

After a phone call with Hun Sen this week, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said in a Twitter message that only non-political representatives from Myanmar should be invited to ASEAN meetings if there is no significant progress on the peace plan.

For failing to comply with ASEAN's demands, his failure to cease hostilities, allow humanitarian access and start a dialogue, as agreed with ASEAN, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing was barred from attending the ASEAN summit in October.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What is India's Myanmar strategy?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-is-indias-myanmar-strategy-439755/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hun Sen, however, in a further sign of division within ASEAN, said junta officials should be allowed to attend ASEAN meetings.

Hun Sen is one of the world's longest-serving leaders and Western countries and human rights organisations have long condemned him for crackdowns on opposition figures, civil rights organizations, and the media.

Emerlynne Gil, the Deputy Regional Director for Research at Amnesty International, says the &nbsp;visit risks sending mixed signals to Mynamar's military leader and Hun Sen should instead lead ASEAN to take strong actions to address the country's "dire human rights situation."

He will meet with military leader Min Aung Hlaing. However, the U.S.-funded Radio Free Asia reported, citing a junta spokesman that he would not meet with Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been detained since the coup. Suu Kyi is on trial, facing nearly a dozen charges that carry combined maximum sentences of more than 100 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen arrived in Myanmar on Friday to an honour guard and red carpet. His visit prompted protests by coup opponents in other parts of the country over fears the visit will grant the military junta more legitimacy.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen arrived in Myanmar on Friday to an honour guard and red carpet. His visit prompted protests by coup opponents in other parts of the country over fears the visit will grant the military junta more legitimacy. Myanmar's army overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government on February 1 last year, triggering months of protests and bloodshed. The Cambodian PM's two-day visit is the first by a government official to the country since the military overthrew the government. Also read | Myanmar’s army is accused of massacring dozens of civilians Currently, Cambodia chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which has been trying to broker a peace deal in Myanmar and which adopted a five-point "consensus" peace plan in April. The junta's failure to implement the plan has enraged some ASEAN nations, including Indonesia. Many opponents of military rule in Myanmar have claimed that Hun Sen is supporting the junta by making the trip. On social media, images and videos showed protesters in Depayin, about 300 kilometres north of the capital, Naypyidaw burning a poster of Hun Sen, chanting "Hun Sen don't come to Myanmar. We don't want dictator Hun Sen". As @hunsencambodia, Prime Minister of Cambodia touched down in Myanmar, Australia Myanmar diaspora community & Cambodia community staged protests in front of the embassy of Myanmar and Cambodia in Canberra. #2022Jan7Coup #WhatsHappeningInMyanmar pic.twitter.com/UMa1dgMr3z — Phyo (@ThetMarPhyo10) January 7, 2022 × Further protests were reported in the second city of Mandalay, as well as in the regions of Tanintharyi and Monywa. Also read | In conflict-torn Myanmar, more than 30 killed, bodies burnt, say reports In a speech on Wednesday, Hun Sen urged everyone in Myanmar to exercise restraint and follow the peace plan. "Brothers in Myanmar, do you want your country to fall into a real civil war or want it solved?" he said. After a phone call with Hun Sen this week, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said in a Twitter message that only non-political representatives from Myanmar should be invited to ASEAN meetings if there is no significant progress on the peace plan. For failing to comply with ASEAN's demands, his failure to cease hostilities, allow humanitarian access and start a dialogue, as agreed with ASEAN, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing was barred from attending the ASEAN summit in October. Watch | Gravitas: What is India's Myanmar strategy? Hun Sen, however, in a further sign of division within ASEAN, said junta officials should be allowed to attend ASEAN meetings. Hun Sen is one of the world's longest-serving leaders and Western countries and human rights organisations have long condemned him for crackdowns on opposition figures, civil rights organizations, and the media. Emerlynne Gil, the Deputy Regional Director for Research at Amnesty International, says the visit risks sending mixed signals to Mynamar's military leader and Hun Sen should instead lead ASEAN to take strong actions to address the country's "dire human rights situation." He will meet with military leader Min Aung Hlaing. However, the U.S.-funded Radio Free Asia reported, citing a junta spokesman that he would not meet with Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been detained since the coup. Suu Kyi is on trial, facing nearly a dozen charges that carry combined maximum sentences of more than 100 years. (With inputs from agencies)

In Myanmar, Cambodian PM met with a red-carpet welcome and chants of 'We don't need you'

Workers from Myanmar have long sought employment in Thailand. In the days before the pandemic, a little more than two million Myanmar people lived and worked in the kingdom.

After the borders were closed in March 2020, migrants had no choice but to travel illegally.

While there is no official data on the size of the inflow, experts say one indicator is how many migrants have been caught by authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-aung-san-suu-kyi-jailed-for-four-years-for-inciting-dissent-against-military-434482">Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi jailed for four years for inciting dissent against military</a>

According to Thai government figures, the number of arrests tripled after Myanmar's February 1 coup.

The number of migrants intercepted peaked in November 2020 at more than 6,000, an increase of more than tenfold from the 560 people arrested in January.

Geraldine Ansart, the chief of the International Organization for Migration's Thailand mission, said for each person arrested, "it is realistic to assume that... at least one other Myanmar national could cross the border without being apprehended".

Roisai Wongsuban, a Thai migrant rights activist, said the spike in arrivals was due to the economic crisis in Myanmar after the coup, which saw inflation soar and job opportunities disappear.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/situation-has-not-improved-us-threatens-new-measures-against-myanmar-junta-437390">'Situation has not improved': US threatens new measures against Myanmar junta</a>

Food prices doubled as the value of the kyat plummeted against the US dollar, and fuel costs soared, she said. Many people became destitute.&nbsp;

"It is hard for ordinary people."

As a result of Covid-spurred border closures, seasonal workers who had travelled in and out of Thailand for years were left in limbo.&nbsp;

"The border has been closed for so long that there is no legal pathways for workers who want to come back to Thailand," Roisai added.

General Santipong Thammapiya, a spokesman for the Thai army, said it was mainly Thailand's reopening to tourists in November that had attracted workers from Myanmar -- many of whom work in the kingdom's vital industries, including the service sector.

"Workers... wanted to come back," he said while speaking to AFP. "They also trust the Thai healthcare system, which can provide treatment for Covid."

In Thailand, the demand for Myanmar workers is high; however, given their status, they are forced to accept lower wages.

Thailand is facing a shortage of 200,000 workers, according to the labour ministry.

Also read |&nbsp;Gravitas: What is India's Myanmar strategy?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-is-indias-myanmar-strategy-439755/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, according to Santipong, Bangkok does not tolerate illegal migration, and those arrested are sent to the courts for legal proceedings, followed by repatriation.

Despite obstacles, two people smugglers who operate near the Three Pagodas Pass border crossing in Kanchanaburi province told news agency AFP that they have been doing well.

Desperation drives thousands to pay 13,000 baht to 25,000 baht ($380 to $750) to cross.

"Some are arrested, but there are even more people who are not," said one smuggler on condition of anonymity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Workers from Myanmar have long sought employment in Thailand. In the days before the pandemic, a little more than two million Myanmar people lived and worked in the kingdom.

Workers from Myanmar have long sought employment in Thailand. In the days before the pandemic, a little more than two million Myanmar people lived and worked in the kingdom. After the borders were closed in March 2020, migrants had no choice but to travel illegally. While there is no official data on the size of the inflow, experts say one indicator is how many migrants have been caught by authorities. Also read | Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi jailed for four years for inciting dissent against military According to Thai government figures, the number of arrests tripled after Myanmar's February 1 coup. The number of migrants intercepted peaked in November 2020 at more than 6,000, an increase of more than tenfold from the 560 people arrested in January. Geraldine Ansart, the chief of the International Organization for Migration's Thailand mission, said for each person arrested, "it is realistic to assume that... at least one other Myanmar national could cross the border without being apprehended". Roisai Wongsuban, a Thai migrant rights activist, said the spike in arrivals was due to the economic crisis in Myanmar after the coup, which saw inflation soar and job opportunities disappear. Also read | 'Situation has not improved': US threatens new measures against Myanmar junta Food prices doubled as the value of the kyat plummeted against the US dollar, and fuel costs soared, she said. Many people became destitute. "It is hard for ordinary people." As a result of Covid-spurred border closures, seasonal workers who had travelled in and out of Thailand for years were left in limbo. "The border has been closed for so long that there is no legal pathways for workers who want to come back to Thailand," Roisai added. General Santipong Thammapiya, a spokesman for the Thai army, said it was mainly Thailand's reopening to tourists in November that had attracted workers from Myanmar -- many of whom work in the kingdom's vital industries, including the service sector. "Workers... wanted to come back," he said while speaking to AFP. "They also trust the Thai healthcare system, which can provide treatment for Covid." In Thailand, the demand for Myanmar workers is high; however, given their status, they are forced to accept lower wages. Thailand is facing a shortage of 200,000 workers, according to the labour ministry. Also read | Gravitas: What is India's Myanmar strategy? However, according to Santipong, Bangkok does not tolerate illegal migration, and those arrested are sent to the courts for legal proceedings, followed by repatriation. Despite obstacles, two people smugglers who operate near the Three Pagodas Pass border crossing in Kanchanaburi province told news agency AFP that they have been doing well. Desperation drives thousands to pay 13,000 baht to 25,000 baht ($380 to $750) to cross. "Some are arrested, but there are even more people who are not," said one smuggler on condition of anonymity. (With inputs from agencies)

'Hard for ordinary people': High prices, poverty forces thousands in Myanmar to illegally cross into Thailand

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