NAYPYITAW: In Myanmar, at least 18 people were killed and over 30 wounded when police opened fire on crowd protesting against military coup in various cities including the biggest city of Yangon.

Crowds of demonstrators came under fire after stun grenades, tear gas and shots in the air failed to break up their protests.

The protesters wearing plastic work helmets and with makeshift shields faced off against police and soldiers in battle gear, including some from units notorious for tough crackdowns on ethnic groups in border regions.

Meanwhile, the UN Human Rights office in a statement said Police and military forces confronted peaceful demonstrations, using lethal force.