Attacks on Chinese-run factories in Myanmar’s biggest city drew demands on Monday from Beijing for protection of their property and employees, while many in Myanmar expressed outrage over China’s apparent lack of concern for those killed in protests against last month’s military coup.
Pro-Democracy protesters in Myanmar set Chinese factories on fire on one of the darkest days for the country since the coup. At the same time, 38 people were killed on Sunday by security forces in Myanmar. Pro-Democracy protesters in Myanmar have been targeting China with frequent demonstrations at the Chinese Embassy in Yangon, convinced that the military coup has support from China. Casualties were highest in Yangon where the military and police opened fire on unarmed civilians, resulting in the death of 22. Several Chinese-funded factories were attacked and set on fire in Yangon’s industrial zone. The Chinese Embassy had contacted authorities in Myanmar and urged that police be deployed to protect the Chinese companies and personnel. Police and firefighters were sent to protect the factories, which are scattered across several industrial zones in Yangon.
Meanwhile, martial law has been declared at multiple places following the bloodshed including Hlaingthaya, Yangon’s Shwepyithar district, Yangon townships of North Dagon, North Okkalapa, South Dagon and Dagon Seikkan.
