Myanmar military threatens media using word 'coup'

Myanmar's military chief has threatened to crack down on any media outlets if they continue to use the word 'coup' to describe what his armed forced have done.

Thats according to reports by military-run broadcaster, Myawaddy News on Monday evening who quoted General Min Aung Hlaing saying they "will take action and withdraw licenses from the media if they use the word 'coup' government."

Myanmar's security forces have shown more restraint since the coup compared to previous crackdowns in almost half a century of military rule in the country.

Even still - three protesters have been killed, and nearly 700 people have been arrested.

Monday also saw a nation-wide protest and general strike where both local shops and international brands like KFC and delivery service Foodpanda closed for the day.

From the central plains in the ancient city of Bagan to the largest city Yangon tens of thousands gathered to protest against the coup.

Some stomped on posters of an alleged Myanmar army sniper. Some waved posters supporting civil disobedience movement and raised a three finger salute of resistance, a symbol borrowed from the Hunger Games films.

It's now been three weeks since the armed forces overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government.

Western leaders have stepped up pressure on military leaders with the U.S. adding two more generals to a sanctions list on Monday.

The E.U said it is also considering targeted sanctions on businesses owned by the military.