The UN anti-torture task force is in Athens to investigate the recent deaths of two migrants in police custody in the Greek capital. The group is tasked with investigating and verifying cases of possible torture, ill-treatment and violations of the human rights of prisoners.
A UN unit called the Subcommittee for the Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (SPT) arrived in Athens on Tuesday and will remain in the country for 12 days as part of regular inspections of police stations and migrant detention centers , correctional facilities or prisons, and border checkpoints.
Citing police sources, the state broadcaster ERT reported that the visit took place after the death of the 29-year-old Mia Harizula from Bangladesh who was reportedly found hanged at the police station. It should also be recalled that a few days earlier, another migrant, Mohamed Kamran Asik, A 37-year-old delivery worker from Pakistan was also found dead in his cell at Agios Panteleimonas police station in Athens.
The UN Task Force Against Torture will conduct a series of face-to-face interviews with senior officers, including the Greek police, coast guard and ombudsman. During the meeting with the UN team, the ombudsman will reportedly raise serious questions about misconduct by Greek law enforcement agencies.
According to media reports, the leadership of the Greek police (EL.AS) instructed all officers and services to cooperate with the UN team and provide its members with full access to all premises, including places of detention, without restrictions or escort. The transmitted internal document emphasizes that inspectors have the right to question detainees or any other persons without exception.
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