Myanmar , Sept 04 (V7N):According to a recent report by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), the Myanmar military junta has killed 1,132 women and arrested 5,649 since the coup in February 2021. The report, which covers data up to the end of August this year, includes only verified cases, with the actual number of victims likely being higher, the AAPP, an independent non-profit organization, stated.

Titled "Women Behind Bars in the Spring Revolution," the report highlights the critical role women have played in anti-military protests following the junta's ousting of the National League for Democracy (NLD) government. Despite facing severe repression—such as killings, arrests, torture, and sexual violence—women continue to resist across Myanmar.

The AAPP's report outlines that the main causes of death for these women include shelling, bombing, and torture during interrogations in prisons and police stations. In September alone, eight women were killed, with four dying under interrogation and two in police stations. Yangon has the highest number of women arrested and imprisoned at 1,440 cases, followed by Mandalay with 929, and Sagaing with 705. The report indicates that similar atrocities are occurring in other regions, reflecting the widespread nature of the junta's crackdown.

Women in Myanmar face constant threats of arbitrary detention, with the junta justifying these actions through politically motivated accusations. Many women arrested endure severe physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, often continuing throughout their detention. In some instances, female prisoners have been killed during interrogation without public awareness, and families of political activists have also been targeted.

Ma Zu Zu May Yoon from the Women’s Organization of Political Prisoners (WOPP), herself a former political prisoner, noted that even pregnant women have been detained. Her group is working to provide food and medicine to those still imprisoned.

The AAPP is calling on the international community and relevant stakeholders to enhance support and cooperate in holding the junta accountable for these atrocities and to take swift action against those responsible.

END/MSS/