Fiji: “Shocking” video depicts alleged torture of prisoners

Video footage apparently showing the torture of two men  in Fiji is “shocking”, Amnesty International said on Tuesday, as it called for an independent investigation into the events. 

The nine minute video posted online appears to show two men being repeatedly beaten with poles, as they lie huddled on the ground handcuffed and screaming in agony as batons are used repeatedly against them. 

The authenticity of the footage is still to be verified and the perpetrators are not in uniform, however, it appears consistent with earlier reports of brutality against prisoners. 

“This appalling incident appears to be the latest example of abuse. The Fijian authorities must treat this shocking footage with the utmost seriousness and immediately initiate an independent investigation,” said Roseann Rife of Amnesty International. “While the video is still to be verified what is clear is that torture is unacceptable under any circumstances and those responsible must be brought to justice.” 

“The humiliation of the men and their injuries evident in the video is very serious. Forced to undress and harassed by a dog, as men nearby laugh, it is difficult to watch. The subsequent brutal beating with batons is harrowing. It is torture.” 

Amnesty International is calling for an independent and transparent investigation into these events. 

The organization is also calling for clear public assurances and actions to back it up by Fiji’s military government that torture and other ill treatment by military, police or prison officers will not to be tolerated under any circumstances.