YANGON, Myanmar (AP) — Myanmar security forces were seen firing slingshots at protesters, chasing them down and even brutally beating an ambulance crew in video showing a dramatic escalation of violence against opponents of last month’s military coup. Their numbers have remained high even as security forces have repeatedly fired tear gas, rubber bullets and live rounds to disperse the crowds, and arrested protesters en masse. The coup reversed years of slow progress toward democracy in the Southeast Asian nation after five decades of military rule. As part of the crackdown, security forces have also arrested hundreds of people, including journalists. Ignoring that appeal, Myanmar’s security forces have continued to attack peaceful protesters.

Source: Egypt Independent March 04, 2021 03:45 UTC