UN Security Council Condemns Violence in Myanmar, Calls for Release of Detained Persons

The UN Security Council has strongly condemned the violence against peaceful protestors in Myanmar. In a statement released on Thursday, the UNSC expressed deep concern at the arbitrary detention of members of government including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint, and others. It called for the immediate release of all those detained arbitrarily. 

The Security Council also expressed its continued support for the democratic transition in Myanmar and stressed the need to uphold democratic institutions and processes. It also extended its support to the ASEAN initiative calling for the exercise of utmost restraint by all sides and seek a peaceful solution through constructive dialogue.

Meanwhile, protests continued in Myanmar for the 38th day in



several cities and townships. More than 60 protestors have been killed and some 2000 people have been detained by security forces since the Feb.1 military takeover against the civilian government headed by the state counselor Aung San Suu Kyi.

The state-owned MRTV announced arrest warrants against 29 youth leaders of the protest. Police raided places in the North Okkalapa district of Yangon arresting about 100 people.

Meanwhile, protests continued in several townships and regions of Myanmar on Thursday. Reports of protests from South Okkalapa, Dawei, Myaing, and Tamu in Chin State are pouring in on social media. At least 6 people are reported to be killed in police firing on protestors in the Myaing Township of the Magway region, though there is no official confirmation as yet.