U.N. Official Condemns Myanmar Killings

A top U.N. official condemned recent reports of killings of civilians in Myanmar, stating that they were credible reports, and called on the Myanmar authorities to investigate the horrific violence. 

Footage of the aftermath of a massacre on Christmas Eve in eastern Myanmar has sparked wide international outrage. The massacre reportedly killed more than 30 people, including women and children. 

U.N. Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths said that he was horrified by the reports of attacks against civilians, and condemned the “grievous incident” as well as all similar attacks against civilians in Myanmar. Violence against civilians is strictly prohibited under international humanitarian law. 

Griffiths said that the reports were credible, and called for an immediate thorough and transparent investigation. 

Myanmar’s ruling military has not yet condemned the killings, which took place Friday near Mo So village in Kayah State. The military took power of the country in February when it overthrew the elected government of the Nobel Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Turmoil has ensued in the country ever since 

Horrifying photos showed civilians dead and burned in their vehicles, after reportedly being shot by government troops as they tried to flee combat. Residents and human rights organizations that work in the area said soldiers killed the civilians. 

The U.S. Embassy in Myanmar said on Sunday that it was appalled by the attack, calling it “barbaric,” and stating that it killed at least 35. In a statement, the Embassy said that it will continue to press for accountability. 

The ongoing violence and conflict have resulted in a mass fleeing of civilians. Since mid-December alone, Thai authorities have reported that 5,260 refugees have come into Thailand to escape the violence. 

Since the February coup, more than 1,300 people have been killed, especially in the continuous military crackdown on protests. More than 11,000 have been arrested and detained.