AI-Help Detainees in Bangladesh

Amnesty Stop Torture

FEAR OF TORTURE

Detainees in Bangladesh

2002-10-28 Bangladesh

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Amnesty International is extremely concerned at continued reports of torture in Bangladesh since the army's involvement in 'Operation Clean Heart' which began on 17 October. In the last twelve days there have been at least ten reported deaths in custody. According to media reports, the army has claimed that all the deaths were a result of 'heart attacks', though relatives of the victims have told journalists that the prisoners were tortured to death. Witnesses have also reported seeing marks on the bodies as they were taken to hospital.

On 23 October, Amnesty International urged the government of Bangladesh to immediately investigate, through an independent, impartial and competent body, any reports of torture in army custody. The organization has also called for any army or police personnel involved in acts of torture to be brought to justice. On 25 October Bangladeshi and international media quoted the government and the army as saying they were committed to investigating the deaths in custody, however three more people have died since then, casting doubts on the authorities' claim.