UN calls for inquiry into Rohingya deaths

The UN human rights chief has called on Burma to investigate reports that dozens of Rohingya Muslims have been killed in attacks by Buddhists in Rakhine state. In a statement, Navi Pillay said a "full, prompt and impartial investigation" was needed. The UN had "credible information" that 48 Rohingya Muslims had been killed in violence in early January. Rakhine state - in the west of Burma, which is also known as Myanmar - has seen several outbreaks of violence targeting the Rohingya Muslims since June 2012. In the statement, the UN said eight Rohingya Muslim men were attacked at Du Char Yar Tan village on 9 January. "By responding to these incidents quickly and decisively, the government has an opportunity to show transparency and accountability, which will strengthen democracy and the rule of law in Myanmar.'' At least 200 people were killed in fierce clashes between Buddhist and Muslim communities in Rakhine state in 2012. Tens of thousands of Rohingya Muslims remain displaced in the wake of that violence, many still living in camps. Sporadic outbreaks of anti-Muslim violence continued throughout 2013 in other parts of Burma as well, according to a news agency.