The military regime killed at least 183 people during its violent crackdown on peaceful protests across the country since staging a coup six weeks ago, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP).
On Sunday, the deadliest day since the protests began, security forces killed 74 protesters, AAPP said. Many more were wounded.
A lot of the casualties were in Yangon's suburban and industrial townships.
A man from Hlaing Thar Yar Township told NMG that residents are terrified to stay there after “soldiers fired indiscriminately everywhere at night”. They also used sound bombs. “We are used to hearing the sounds of gunfire. Many people have been killed.”
After not being able to work because they're afraid of being targeted by roaming security forces, he said residents are returning to their home states and regions. Locals said soldiers fired at people crossing the Aung Zayya bridge, at residential housing in Kyansittha, Mee Gwet market, 86th Gate bus stop and Ward 124.
Two protesters were killed in Myitkyina, located in Burma's northern Kachin State. Further northwest in Hpakant, security forces killed one demonstrator, according to a youth, who's participating in protests in the Kachin State capital.
“We protest peacefully and they use snipers to shoot at protesters...The death toll in Burma keeps increasing every day.”
Following Sunday's deadly crackdown, the junta's State Administration Council enacted martial law for Shwe Pyi Thar, north and south Dagon Myothit, Dagon Seik Kan and northern Okalarpa townships, as well as in sections of Mandalay, Burma's second largest city.
According to orders signed by SAC secretary, Lt-Gen Aung Lin Dwe, under current legislation those who commit one of 23 offenses could receive the death penalty, unlimited incarnation and maximum punishment. Some of these offenses include treason, sedition, obstructing military personnel and civil servants from performing duties, instigation, incitement, spreading misinformation, weapons possession, ties to unlawful associations, vandalism, robbery, corruption and drug abuse.
According to AAPP, as of March 15 a total of 2,175 people were arrested, charged or sentenced since the coup. There have been 3 convictions, including 2 who were jailed for 2 years and sentenced for 3 months. Warrants were issued for 73 who are evading arrest, while 1,856 are under detention, including 3 who were sentenced, or have outstanding charges. A total of 1,856 were released.
