Clashes Between Military Forces and Civilians in Myanmar Result in At Least 25 Deaths

At least 25 people have been killed in clashes between military forces and civilians in Myanmar, according to Al Jazeera.

In some areas, civilians have formed “defense forces” to take up arms against the state. Recent violence has occurred in the town of Depayin in the Sagaing region, approximately 300 kilometers north of the capital Naypyidaw. Following the clashes, 25 bodies have been gathered by residents.

Locals reported that military trucks entered the town and opened fire, hoping to flush out members of the local defense forces. They stated that members of the defense forces attempted to return fire, but soldiers shot at any individuals they encountered along the way without specific targets.

According to United Nations data, around 23,000 citizens have fled their homes due to violence since the coup in Myanmar. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners has also reported that at least 888 people have been killed by security forces since February, with approximately 5,200 individuals in detention.

It is worth noting that Myanmar experienced a military coup, during which military officials arrested the leader of the “National League for Democracy” party and state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint, and other senior officials. Military television announced a state of emergency for one year in the country. As a result of the coup, state power has passed into the hands of Myanmar's armed forces' commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing, while Vice President Myint Swe has become the acting president.