Ref: 51/2008

Date: 03 June 2008

Time: 07:30 GMT   

7 Injured, including 2 Children, by Palestinian Security Forces in Beit Foriek near Nablus

PCHR strongly condemns the incident that took place in the town of Beit Foriek two days ago, which resulted in the injury of 7 civilians, including 2 children, at the hands of Palestinian security personnel. The Centre calls upon the PNA, represented by the Attorney-General (AG), to seriously investigate the incident; fearing that law-enforcement personnel used excessive force was used against civilians.

The Center’s preliminary investigation indicates that at approximately 15:00 on Sunday, 1 June 2008, clashes broke out between people and security forces in the town of Beit Foriek northeast of Nablus on the backdrop of a security campaign to confiscate illegal vehicles in the town. Eyewitnesses stated that security forces fired at a person who set fire to an illegal vehicle parked in front of the town’s police station and fled. The situation escalated quickly into rioting and fistfights between town residents and security personnel. The rioters threw rocks at the security personnel, who replied by firing at the rock throwers. Seven people suffered gunshot wounds, including 2 children. Others suffered bruises by severe beating. The injured were taken to Rafedia Hospital in Nablus for treatment. One injury was listed as serious.

In light of the above, PCHR:

1. Calls upon the PNA, represented by the Attorney-General (AG), to seriously investigate the incident and to publicize the results of the investigation.
2. Affirms the need for clear and definite instructions on the use of firearms by law-enforcement personnel in line with relevant international standards that ensure respect of human rights.

“END”