Manama, Marking the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, Mohammed Khalid Al Hazza, Acting Attorney-General and Chief of the Special Investigation Unit (SIU), emphasised Bahrain’s commitment to supporting human rights and preserving dignity.
The United Nations (UN) International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is observed annually on June 26, in commemoration of the UN Convention Against Torture in 1987.
Al Hazza said that the right not to be subjected to torture is recognised under international and national law. He underscored the commitment of the international community to formulate a special convention to combat torture and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment.
The Chief of SIU underscored the importance of establishing strong mechanisms and providing the necessary legislative and legal framework to investigate the allegations raised and ensure accountability and confronting this crime.
He highlighted that Bahrain has adopted these measures by establishing several agencies
to safeguard and preserve human rights in the criminal justice system, including the SIU.
Al Hazza said that the unit was established in line with the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the Istanbul Protocol.
Al Hazza underscored that the SIU is an independent judicial investigative body that conducts a thorough investigation into allegations related to torture or ill-treatment, determines criminal responsibility in the case, and ensures victims have access to their rights and can receive justice according to international standards.
Source: Bahrain News Agency