<p>At least 19 people across Myanmar were shot dead by security forces Saturday, according to emergency workers and witnesses, as the junta celebrates Armed Forces Day with a military parade in the capital Naypyidaw.</p>.<p><em>AFP </em>has independently confirmed that nine died in the central Mandalay region, three in northern Shan state, one in the ancient city of Bagan, and six in Myanmar's commercial hub Yangon.</p>.<p>Local media puts the toll far higher.</p>
<p>At least 19 people across Myanmar were shot dead by security forces Saturday, according to emergency workers and witnesses, as the junta celebrates Armed Forces Day with a military parade in the capital Naypyidaw.</p>.<p><em>AFP </em>has independently confirmed that nine died in the central Mandalay region, three in northern Shan state, one in the ancient city of Bagan, and six in Myanmar's commercial hub Yangon.</p>.<p>Local media puts the toll far higher.</p>