14 Mar 2013

EU calls for thorough probe of Fiji torture video

4:19 pm on 14 March 2013

The European Union Delegation for the Pacific is calling on the police in Fiji to carry out their investigation of a video showing the beating of two men, believed to be recaptured prisoners, in a thorough and transparent manner.

The EU Delegation in Suva says it is deeply disturbed by the video and it welcomes the investigation, with hope the police can bring the perpetrators rapidly to justice.

It says torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment represent grave violations of human rights and are prohibited under customary international law and can never be justified.

The EU Delegation also encourages Fiji to sign the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.