Amnesty International has continued to receive allegations of torture from Chile since the new civilian government took office in March 1990: some complaints were received after February 1991, when new legislation came into force. The Carabineros (uniformed police) are most frequently cited as the perpetrators although cases involving the Investigaciones (criminal investigations branch) have been reported. Since March 1990 formal complaints have been submitted to the courts on behalf of more than 30 people, apparently to little effect. Over 40 cases of torture reported to Amnesty International since March 1990 are summarized in this report: forms of torture include beating, suspension by the wrists for long periods, electric shocks, sexual abuse and threats.
