This statement of Amnesty International’s concerns was presented on 7 August 1991. Despite recent statements by the Government of Indonesia regarding human rights, AI remains concerned about serious abuses. Reports indicate that a pattern of short-term detention, torture and ill-treatment (including rape) of suspected government opponents has accelerated. Over 400 people have been detained since 1988 for alleged involvement in or support of pro-independence groups e.g. Fretilin. At least 200 of these have been arrested since early 1990. AI is also concerned about reports of “disappearance” and about reports of at least 30 cases of killings by the security forces in 1990/91. The issue of denial of permission to AI to visit East Timor is also covered.
