Martial law declared in two districts of Myanmar capital after nearly 40 people died

Protests in Myanmar

The State Administration Council's statement said the imposition of martial law is aimed at strengthening security and restoring law and order in the two districts of Hlaingthaya and Shwepyitha in the capital Yangon.

According to the Myanmar Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, at least 38 people were killed and dozens injured in protests that took place on Sunday, March 14.

Twenty-two people died in Hlaingthaya district, with 16 others killed in Mandalay, Bago and Phakhan. The actual number of victims of violence is likely to be higher.

The military faction in Myanmar announced on February 1dismissed the country's leadership and declared a one-year state of emergency. They also established a new council of ministers. Since early February, Myanmar people have taken to the streets to participate in anti-war protests that have been brutally suppressed by security forces.