Mozambique’s police opens investigation into torture of miners

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Mozambique’s police opens investigation into torture of miners

11:12 CAT | 19 Jul 2017

O País (File photo)

Police are investigating the possible involvement of Rapid Intervention Unit agents in the torture of ‘garimpeiros’, after amateur video showing acts of violence, torture and humiliation of about twenty miners came to light.

In one scene, the alleged Rapid Intervention Unit agents are seen hitting prospectors with a stick with the victim screaming and begging the agents to stop. The alleged agents in the recording are speak Portuguese and giving orders for the beating. Another video snows the men being humiliated by being ordered to put their heads on the ground and sing a song.

The images were analysed by the police and formed part of the agenda of a General Command meeting yesterday. Police spokesman Inacio Dina said an investigation to identify those involved in the violence had been initiated.

“The acts seen in these videos are reprehensible. The participation of alleged members of the Rapid Intervention Unit is visible. The General Command reflected on this and immediately decided that there should be a thorough investigation into the case,” Dina said.

If the involvement of police officers in torture is confirmed, the police will institute a process to hold its agents accountable. “The important thing at this point is to find out where and when the incidents occurred, identify the individuals involved and the exact circumstances in which the incidents took place. Only the identification of the perpetrators will enable us to hold them accountable,” Dina said.

Dina said the police became aware of the violence inflicted on the garimpeiros when the videos started circulating on social networks, and encouraged citizens to continue to expose all acts of violence and crimes.

The exact location where the torture took place is not yet known, but is thought to have occurred at a ruby mine in Namanhumbir, Cabo Delgado province.

Source: O País