250 people died in protests in Myanmar

Protests in Myanmar. Photo: EPA-EFE

According to reports, from February 5, the day mass protests against the military government began, to March 21, 250 people were killed in clashes between protesters and police and military forces. On March 20, the number was 247.

According to information posted on APPZ’s Facebook account, which publishes daily statistics on those arrested and killed in clashes with the military and police, the total number of arrests as of March 21 was 2,665, while on March 20 the figure was 2,345. The association noted that this figure only reflects the number of people officially arrested and charged, not the real number, the total number of people arrested during the protests is actually much higher.

Mass protests against the military government continue in many cities in Myanmar. The army and police use water cannons, tear gas, rubber bullets and even military-style guns to disperse protesters. Protesters set up barricades, behind which they respond by using slingshots and homemade crossbows to fire bricks, stones and marbles at the police.

On February 1, a military coup took place in Myanmar, transferring power to the Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Armed Forces, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. President Win Myint and State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi were arrested. This move came after days of escalating tensions between the government and the military, which did not recognize the results of the November election in the country. The coup organizers declared a state of emergency in Myanmar for a period of 1 year.