Myanmar’s security forces have been using live ammunition against anti-coup protesters in breach of international law, the UN human rights envoy says.
Speaking at an emergency meeting in Geneva, Thomas Andrews condemned the leaders of the coup and said there were “growing reports and photographic evidence” of wrongdoing.
He called for economic sanctions and a ban on weapons exports to the country.
Protests continued on Friday in defiance of a plea from the army chief.
Gen Min Aung Hlaing called for “unity” to prevent “disintegration” as the country marks the Union Day holiday. Demonstrators are demanding the release of detained elected leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi.
During Friday’s emergency meeting, Mr Andrews – the United Nations human rights investigator for Myanmar – said while investigators have been denied access to Myanmar, there was growing evidence that live ammunition had been used against protesters.
Mr Andrews said the people of Myanmar had invested their hope in the UN, and needed more than a statement on paper. He called on the UN – through the security council – to consider economic sanctions against Myanmar, a ban on arms exports, and a travel ban on military leaders.
Earlier this week, 19-year-old Mya Thwe Thwe Khaing was shot in the head and seriously injured when police tried to disperse protesters using water cannon, rubber bullets and live rounds.
She remains on a ventilator in hospital in a critical condition. The wound was consistent with one from live ammunition, rights groups said.
The UN calls for sanctions came as protests continued on Union Day, with reports of rubber bullets fired by police in Mawlamine.
BB.COM