UN Investigators Warn of Imminent Executions in Myanmar

A United Nations team investigating Myanmar is closely monitoring reports suggesting that executions could soon occur, VOA reported yesterday.

Nicholas Koumjian, head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, stated that several individuals sentenced to death in closed trials last year may face imminent execution. He emphasized that such actions could constitute crimes against humanity.

The military government has not confirmed any potential executions and has not responded to media inquiries. The junta previously faced international condemnation in 2022 after executing four democracy activists, claiming they were not activists but killers deserving punishment.

Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar has been engulfed in civil conflict, with tens of thousands detained. According to a recent U.N. report, at least 1,853 individuals have died in custody, including 88 children. Rights groups indicate that anti-junta activists are likely the targets of the potential executions.