Thailand : Investigate torture allegations in the South

Responding to reports that Abdulloh Esormusor, a suspect in a security-related case, was found unconscious in military custody and was taken to an intensive care unit at the Pattani Provincial Hospital , Piyanut Kotsan, Director of Amnesty International Thailand said:

“There must be a prompt, effective and independent investigation into allegations that Mr. Esormusor was subjected torture or ill treatment while in custody. The investigation must be carried out by an independent agency, not by the military authorities themselves.

“We further call on the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRCT) to also conduct an independent, impartial and effective investigation into the case. If it can be established that Mr. Esormusor was tortured, Thailand must ensure that criminal prosecution ensues to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“To prevent torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatments, Thailand must promptly amend the draft Act on the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance to ensure it reflects Thailand’s international human rights obligations. They must enact it urgently. Thailand should also ratify the Optional Protocol of the UN Convention against Torture and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED) as well as establish National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs).”

 

Background

According to news reports, Abdulloh Esormusor was found unconscious and taken to receive treatment in an intensive care unit at the Pattani Provincial Hospital on 21 July 2019. On 20 July, Mr. Esormusor was apprehended by an unknown number of security officers around 4pm and held in custody at the Ingkayutthaboriharn military camp in Pattani’s Nong Chik until 3am the following day.

Mr. Esorsumor was reportedly admitted to hospital unconscious and suffering from brain swelling after less than a day of custody.

Amnesty International Thailand also urges authorities to provide more effective safeguards against torture. They should ensure those being held in custody in various facilities, including military camps, have prompt access to legal counsel, family members and independent medical treatment.

Authorities should permit unannounced visit by human rights organizations to all detention facilities. Authorities should also repeal or amend legislation that allows for detention without charge or trial and increases the risk of torture and ill-treatment – including in unauthorized places of detention – to prevent torture and ensure compliance with Thailand’s international human rights obligations.

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