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This article participates on the following special index pages:
Strikes and Protests 2007- Save Zimbabwe Campaign
Update
on Assaults, Torture and Health Rights Violations Since 11 March
2007
Zimbabwe
Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR)
April 15, 2007
View Save Zimbabwe
Campaign index
of images and articles
The
Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights remains concerned
by continued allegations of organised violence and torture being
perpetrated by security forces on Zimbabwean citizens throughout
the country. We have witnessed an increase in the number of persons
presenting with injuries reportedly sustained from assault and torture
inflicted during the course of arrest, during raids on the victim's
homes and while in police custody.
Since the 11th
of March 2007 at least 49 persons have required hospitalisation
as a result of their injuries whilst an additional 175 have been
treated and discharged. ZADHR is deeply concerned at the level of
force being used, which is resulting in serious injuries. These
included:
- Soft tissue
injuries (moderate to severe) - 182 individuals
- Head Injuries
- 4 individuals
- Fractures
- 11 individuals with fractures to the arms, legs and ribs
including 3 with multiple fractures.
- Gun shot
wounds - 6 individuals including that resulting in the death
of Gift Tandare
- Other (including
swelling, bruising, lacerations) - 34 individuals
We condemn the
forced removal from a private hospital of 8 persons being treated
for injuries sustained in police custody on 31 March 2007 despite
permission granted by the Magistrate's Court allowing them
access to such treatment having been obtained. The 8 were still
in need of treatment in hospital when they were forcibly removed
without the consent of those treating them. Previously, while in
police custody, all medical access had been denied. Such behaviour
by security forces continues to intimidate health workers who treat
victims of organised violence and torture and to hinder the ability
of victims to have access to health care without fear.
ZADHR reiterates
that all persons have the right to access the best possible medical
care when injured during the course of their arrest or while in
police custody and urges the Government to take steps to ensure
that this right is respected, protected and fulfilled.
Visit the ZADHR
fact
sheet
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