Fury intensifies in Myanmar as woman shot during protests dies
A Myanmar woman died in intensive care on Friday, becoming the first known casualty of the country’s biggest protests in over a decade.
Mya Thwate Thwate Khaing, who turned 20 while on life support in hospital, was shot in the head by police at a rally in the capital of Naypyidaw.
The shooting has raised anger across Myanmar, adding to the growing fury over the military’s 1 February government overthrow.
Protestors remain ‘determined’
Many members of the anti-coup movement are of the same generation as Mya Thwate Thwate Khaing, a grocery store worker who was a teenager when she was shot.
Within hours of the shooting, videos and images went viral on social media of the moment that stirred further fury into the country.
“I feel really sad about her. I am more determined to come out on the street,” said 24-year-old Nay Lin Htet at a protest in the commercial hub of Yangon.
“I feel proud of her and I will come to the streets until we achieve our goal for her. I have no concern for my security.”
Demonstrators march for Mya
In the following days, protestors marched holding pictures of Mya aloft, with banners calling for an end to dictatorship.
Her brother, Ye Htut Aung, confirmed her death at 11am local time on Friday.
“I feel really sad and have nothing to say,” he said.
“I am thankful for all of those who have been praying for her.”