PRESS RELEASE

 

Senior member of the Islamic Salvation Party

is arrested and tortured.

Ref: 78/99

Date: 25 August, 1999

Yesterday afternoon, 24 August 1999, Palestinian Security forces released Sami Naufal, a member of the politburo of the Islamic National Salvation Party, after seven days of arrest. Mr Naufal testified to PCHR that he had been subjected to torture methods by interrogators in the General Intelligence Services, including beating, sleep deprivation and shabeh (being forced to stand for extended periods in painful positions).

On the night of 16 August 1999, forces of the Palestinian Intelligence raided and searched his house twice, confiscating private property. The property confiscated included personal cameras, a small television, video tapes, and computer disks. Naufal’s family was informed that he was wanted by the Palestinian Intelligence Service.

The next day, after the Islamic Salvation Party received assurances that the matter was simple and would be easily and immediately resolved, Sami Naufal went to the General Intelligence headquarters accompanied by the Secretary General of the Islamic Salvation Party and members of the politburo. He was put under arrest immediately. In his testimony to PCHR Naufal said that he was subjected to prolonged interrogation and that he was subjected to torture, including painful hand-cuffing and falakeh (beatings to the feet).

On August 20, 1999, Naufal was led, blindfolded, to a room. When his blindfold was removed, he saw there were three people in the room. He was informed that he stood before the State Security Court and that the Court decided to arrest him for fifteen days, for interrogation. Naufal also testified that he was interrogated once again and was subjected to shabeh and sleep deprivation. Naufal was released on August 24, 1999 and bruises, swelling and abrasions were evident on different parts of his body, particularly his arms and feet, as is shown by photos taken at the time, and is confirmed in a medical report.

PCHR reiterates its position, condemning the perpetration of torture, which is illegal according to Palestinian and international law. PCHR demands that the Palestinian National Authority put clear regulations in place to prohibit torture by law enforcement agencies and to hold accountable all those who are involved in the perpetration of torture. PCHR also reiterates its position to abandon the State Security Court, which lacks the minimum requirements for a fair trial, undermines the independence of the Palestinian judiciary and violates basic human rights.

For More Information Contact:Palestinian Centre for Human Rights

Tel/Fax: 972 7 2823725 / 2825893

E-mail: [email protected], Web Page: www.pchrgaza.org