Nationwide protests against the coup in Myanmar continue despite threats from the military. Today demonstrators gathered again in numerous cities to demand the restoration of the civilian government under Aung San Suu Kyi.
The police presence reportedly increased. The security forces used water cannons, several participants were injured, as can be seen on photos and videos on social networks.
According to eyewitness reports, the police also shot in the air to drive away the demonstrators. The news portal Frontier Myanmar reported that there had also been individual arrests.
Fear of escalation
Since yesterday evening, there have been curfews between 8:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. in areas of the major cities of Yangon and Mandalay, as well as other cities and districts, which have been severely affected by protests. In addition, gatherings of more than five people, public speeches and protests are prohibited, as the newspaper „Myanmar Times“ reported with reference to announcements by the administration.
The military leadership warned the demonstrators that action would be taken against anyone who endangers the „stability of the state, public security or the rule of law“.
According to reports, hundreds of thousands have protested against the military since the weekend, demanding the release of the arrested Suu Kyi and numerous other politicians. A foreign eyewitness in Yangon spoke of „incredible crowds“. However, there are growing fears that violence could soon occur, he said. In the past, the army had used brutal force to suppress any resistance.
