Japan Seeks Release Of Journalist Held In Myanmar
Japan is calling for the prompt release of Japanese journalist Kitazumi Yuki, who was taken into custody by security forces in Myanmar.
On Sunday night, his apartment in Yangon was surrounded by about 50 security personnel. He was later taken away.
Officials at the Japanese embassy in Myanmar learned from local police that Kitazumi was imprisoned in Yangon for allegedly spreading misinformation. He could face up to three years in prison if convicted.
Police say Kitazumi suffered no injuries.
The embassy officials say they will seek permission to meet Kitazumi in person, in order to check on his condition.
In Myanmar, the military has been intensifying its crackdown on media outlets, stripping them of licenses and detaining executives.
Kitazumi had been covering pro-democracy protests and posting on social media articles and photos about the situation.