Myanmar forces accused of violently occupying schools in "escalation" of post-coup crisis

The United Nations on Friday accused Myanmar's military rulers of occupying dozens of schools by force — in one case even assaulting teachers in the process — as they seek to quash a popular uprising against the February 1 coup in which they seized complete power of the country. A statement issued by UNICEF, the U.N. children's protection agency, in conjunction with the Save the Children charity, called on the junta to "vacate occupied premises immediately and ensure that schools and educational facilities are not used by military or security personnel."

Myanmar's security forces have killed dozens of protesters amid huge demonstrations that erupted immediately after the coup. Young people, including students, educators and health care workers have played a lead role in the anti-coup uprising. "Security forces have reportedly occupied more than 60 schools and university campuses in 13 states and regions," UNICEF said in its statement on Friday. "In at least one incident, security forces reportedly beat two teachers while entering premises, and left several others injured."