The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) and the National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture (MNPT-CNDH) have demanded that authorities in Chiapas conduct an “ex officio, independent, and duly diligent” investigation into alleged acts of torture committed by agents of the State Attorney General’s Office and the Secretariat of Public Security.
The statement was issued following the circulation on social media of a video depicting alleged security personnel subduing two men, who had bags placed over their heads while being beaten and mocked.
The CNDH reported that the footage depicts “conduct that could constitute acts of torture,” apparently carried out by personnel from security and justice administration institutions within the state of Chiapas.
In response to the case, the Chiapas State Attorney General’s Office announced the arrest of 10 individuals—including a deputy director, three public prosecutors, a secretary, and five police officers—who have been placed at the disposal of ministerial authorities.
State Attorney General Jorge Luis Llaven Abarca gave assurances that there would be no impunity and noted that investigations are ongoing to determine whether additional individuals are involved.
For his part, Governor Eduardo Ramírez Aguilar stated that he had requested immediate action from the State Attorney General’s Office, maintaining that “the human rights of alleged criminals subject to the justice system must be respected.”
In its statement, the CNDH reiterated that the Mexican State bears “inalienable” obligations to prevent and punish acts of torture, as well as other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
The body requested that the events be investigated in accordance with the standards set forth in the General Law to Prevent, Investigate, and Punish Torture, and further called for the application of the guidelines of the Istanbul Protocol during forensic evaluations.
The Commission also requested that safeguards be guaranteed for all persons deprived of their liberty, including the immediate registration of detentions, access to legal counsel, independent medical examinations, and the ability to communicate with family members. The case prompted statements from civil society organizations, such as the Group of Litigators for the Protection and Defense of Human Rights (PRODEDH), which demanded exhaustive investigations and sanctions for those responsible.
The CNDH indicated that it will maintain a dialogue with Chiapas authorities to strengthen mechanisms for prevention and specialized investigation in cases of torture.
Source: aristeguinoticias
