More than 5,000 civilians killed since military coup in Myanmar
At least 5,350 civilians have been killed and more than 3.3 million people have been displaced.since the military seized power on February 1, 2021, and more than half of the population is living below the poverty line largely due to violence perpetrated by the country’s armed forces.
Furthermore, nearly 27,400 people have been arrested and the number continues to rise since compulsory military service was implemented last February.
Devastation, destruction and deprivation
“The report consider the devastating impact of violence, destruction and deprivation on people’s mental health, as well as the deterioration of economic and social rights, which is accelerating further economic decline,” OHCHR Spokeswoman Liz Throssell speaks to reporters in Geneva.
Meanwhile, “Young people, who are key to Myanmar’s future, are fleeing abroad to escape being forced to serve or fight for the military.“, she added.
Death in custody
OHCHR said reliable sources indicate that at least 1,853 people have died in custody since the coup, including 88 children and 125 women.
“Many of these individuals have been identified as having died after being subjected to abusive interrogation, other mistreatment while in custody, or being denied access to adequate health care,” Ms. Throssell said.
‘Depraved’ torture methods
Torture and mistreatment in military prisons are reportedly widespread. James Rodehaver, head of the UN human rights group in Myanmar, listed some of the methods.
“The introduction of animals such as snakes or insects or other species. Wild animals for the purpose of causing fear and terror in individuals. Beating people with iron rods, bamboo sticks, batons, rifle butts, leather strips, electric wires, motorcycle chains, suffocation, mock executions, electrocution and burning with stun guns, lighters, cigarettes and boiling water.
“Indeed, some of the most depraved acts are used as methods of torture in these detention centers,” he said.
Hold criminals accountable
OHCHR calls on all those responsible for serious human rights violations and violations of international humanitarian law in Myanmar to be held accountable.
Ms. Throssell noted that in light of the report’s findings, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called Security Council to transfer the full scope of the current situation to International Criminal Court (ICC).
“He reiterated his call for an end to the violence and the immediate and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained,” she said.
