Freelance Journalists Killed in Myanmar Raid Amid Strife

Two freelance journalists, Win Htut Oo and Htet Myat Thu, were killed in Myanmar's Mon state during a raid by security forces. The military, which seized power in February 2021, has been targeting journalists and resistance groups. Multiple journalists and resistance members were killed or arrested in the raid.

Two freelance journalists in Myanmar, Win Htut Oo, 26, and Htet Myat Thu, 28, were killed during a security forces raid in Mon state, reports confirmed on Friday.

According to the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB), both journalists were shot dead by the military, which seized control in February 2021, dislodging the elected government. DVB described the journalists as close friends.

At least five other media professionals have been killed, and many detained and tortured, colleagues revealed. The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists condemned the incident and urged Myanmar authorities to ensure swift justice for those attacked simply for reporting news. Reporters Without Borders ranked Myanmar 171st out of 180 countries in its 2024 World Press Freedom Index.

(With inputs from agencies.)