YANGON, Myanmar- Thousands of monks and protesters defied government directives today and continued protesting.  In response, Myanmar military forces fired warning shots in the air, beat the monks, dragged them into police trucks, and used tear gas on the crowd.

Earlier today, the protesters had started a large march toward the city center and the famous Shwedagon Pagoda- this is where the confrontation started.  Other protester were greeted by warning shots at the Sule Pagoda.

According to hospital sources, one person was killed by the gunfire and five other injured.

The world community continues to react.  The United Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, called for an immediate UN Security Council meeting, stating that there will be no impunity for human rights violators.

The Canadian Press – Buddhist monks, protesters defy Myanmar junta’s ban on assembly – 26 September 2007

Agenzia Giornalistica Italia – Myanmar (Burma): Tear Gas Used on Monks, Dozens Arrested – 26 September 2007

BBC News – Burmese riot police attack monks – 26 September 2007

Asia Times Online – Buddha vs the barrel of a gun – 26 September 2007

Impunity Watch – Myanmar: Curfew Imposed, Assembly Banned – 25 September 2007