14 Mar 2011

Fiji human rights watchdog says no complaints of abuse by military

1:41 pm on 14 March 2011

The Fiji Human Rights Commission says it hasn't received any recent complaints of alleged abuse, detainment or intimidation by the disciplinary forces.

Amnesty International's expressed concern about intimidation and beatings involving a government critic, several trade unionists and a former cabinet minister.

The Commission's Officer in Charge, Rajinesh Mishra, says it's aware of recent media reports and his staff are on the alert for complaints from victims of torture and abuse at the hands of the services.

Mr Mishra says the Commission is investigating earlier complaints of brutality and ill- treatment by other members of the disciplined services.

He says people should be assured it treats all complaints with urgency.

The Commission has a mandate under the Fiji regime's Human Rights Decree to protect and promote human rights for Fiji citizens.