Satellite photos show Myanmar riots destruction

A LEADING human rights group has called for decisive action by Myanmar’s government to end religious attacks against Muslim communities, and has released satellite photos showing the destruction of entire neighborhoods in recent riots.

New York-based Human Rights Watch said in a statement Monday the government should hold accountable those responsible for March 20-22 violence in the central city of Meikhtila that left more than 40 people dead and drove 12,000 from their homes.

Satellite photos released by the group appeared to show areas of Meikhtila leveled by fire. The group’s analysis said the destruction covered more than 24 hectares (59 acres) and destroyed at least 828 buildings, mostly homes.

The statement called for the government to end discrimination and promote religious tolerance to end attacks against Muslims.