Security forces attacked a peaceful demonstration in Taunggyi with tear gas, sound bombs and rubber bullets. A woman who was hit with a rubber bullet received a minor injury, while others lost consciousness after inhaling tear gas.

According to a male participant, who didn’t want his name published, security forces arrested at least 10 people during the midday protest in the Shan State capital on March 9. Most of the protesters arrested on Tuesday were women, the man said, and he suspected they’ll be sent straight to prison.

Everyday that youths and others gathered to peacefully demonstrate against the military regime he said security forces have attacked and tried to arrest them.

Another person, who also requested anonymity, told SHAN that security forces made him and others in the downtown core hand over their phones to examine what’s on their Facebook page.

Days after the regime staged a coup on February 1, health workers started the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM). After many shared news on Facebook, it spread across the country.

In mid-February,the military regime amended Section 505a of the Penal Code to prosecute those participating or encouraging participation in the CDM. Those convicted can be sentenced to prison for a maximum of two years.

“They’re threatening us and it’s really bad,” the male source said. “They’re trying to dominate everything and we must oppose it. We have to cut out the roots of the military dictatorship!” he said.

According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners – Burma, security forces have killed more than 60 people at protests across the country. On March 9, 1,939 people have been arrested, charged or sentenced since the coup. Of these, 319 were released and 3 have been sentenced to 2 years in prison.