UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet on Thursday called on the Burmese army to stop "killing and imprisoning protesters."

At least 54 of them have been killed and more than 1,700 arrested since the February 1 coup.

The actual death toll, however, could be much higher.

UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet on Thursday called on the Burmese army to stop "killing and imprisoning protesters."

At least 54 of them have been killed and more than 1,700 arrested since the February 1 coup, according to information corroborated by the United Nations High Commissioner.

But the real death toll could be much higher, says the UN.

Of these 54 documented cases, at least 30 people were killed in several cities on Wednesday alone.

Another person was killed on Tuesday, 18th Sunday and five the previous days, according to the UN count.

"It is utterly appalling that security forces are firing live ammunition at peaceful protesters across the country. I am also appalled by the documented attacks on emergency medical personnel and ambulances trying to provide care to people injured, "Michelle Bachelet said in a statement.

"The Burmese army must stop killing and imprisoning protesters," added the former Chilean president, who herself has experienced detention and torture in her country, while her father, Alberto Bachelet, is himself died in detention, tortured.

Arrests of activists, parliamentarians and teachers

More than 1,700 people have been arbitrarily arrested and detained, including at least 700 just Wednesday, because of their participation in protests or for their involvement in political activities, according to the UN.

These people include parliamentarians, political activists, writers, human rights defenders, teachers, health professionals, civil servants, journalists and monks.

Here again, the Office estimates that the actual number of people detained is probably much higher, given that the demonstrations took place in more than 500 places "where it was not always possible to follow the evolution of the situation".

"Many of the arbitrary arrests and detentions that have taken place since February 1 may constitute enforced disappearances," said Michelle Bachelet, calling for the immediate release of all those who remain arbitrarily detained.