How the junta’s repressive policies are hampering earthquake rescue efforts in Myanmar

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the central part of Myanmar on March 28, destroying several towns and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in a country already suffering from civil strife under junta rule. The powerful quake also struck many parts of Thailand.

As of March 29, junta authorities said the death toll had risen to 1,644, with 3,408 people injured and 139 still missing. Based on its own monitoring on March 30, independent media outlet DVB said it has documented at least 2,928 deaths across the country.

Hundreds are feared trapped in old temples and mosques since the quake occurred at midday when worshippers were attending prayer services.