Ex-general slain in attack claimed by anti-coup fighters

A retired Myanmar general who formerly served as ambassador to Cambodia was shot dead yesterday, two military sources said, in an attack claimed by anti-coup fighters.

Myanmar's military seized power in a 2021 coup, sparking a civil war pitching it against pro-democracy guerrillas and resurgent ethnic armed groups that have long been active in the Southeast Asian country's fringes.

Most combat is confined to the countryside and smaller settlements, although sporadic grenade and gun attacks on police and junta-affiliated targets are regularly reported in the largest city Yangon.

A source close to the military said former general and Cambodia ambassador Cho Tun Aung "was shot and killed" outside his Yangon home around 8:30 am as he gave alms to monks collecting donations.

"He used to donate meals every morning," the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity. "The shooters used this opportunity to assassinate him." A military officer confirmed Cho Tun Aung had been shot and killed without providing further details.