20 Oct 2010

Amnesty International wants Papua investigations to be independent

9:18 am on 20 October 2010

Amnesty International says the Indonesian government should initiate an independent investigation into reports of torture and other ill-treatment in Papua.

A video published online last week shows Papuans being kicked and physically abused, in some instances by men in uniform.

The human rights group says the release of the video is the latest reminder that torture and other-ill-treatment in Indonesia often go unchecked and unpunished.

Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific Deputy Director, Donna Guest, says they continue to receive regular reports about torture by members of the security forces.

However, she says there are often no independent investigations, and those responsible are rarely brought to account before an independent court.

Amnesty International is urging the Indonesian government to appoint the National Human Rights Commission to lead the investigation.

It also says the government should also ensure the security of the members of the commission carrying out the investigation, as well as the security of victims, witnesses and their families.