Arid expresses concern over cases of missing persons |28 August 2017

The Association for Rights, Information and Democracy (Arid), through its chairman Jules Hoareau, has expressed its concern over the recent reported cases of missing persons.

The full text of a communique sent by Mr Hoareau to that effect reads:

“The Association for Rights, Information and Democracy is concerned with the recent reported cases of missing persons. It is the responsibility of the state to protect all its citizens and to uphold the charter on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.

“Arid is calling on the government and the National Assembly to consider appropriate and immediate action on this issue. In line with the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance,we must take all necessary measures to ensure that disappearance constitutes an offence under our criminal law and in line with the declaration on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in its resolution 47/133 of 18 December 1992.

“There are growing concerns from the citizens over the reported cases and the capacity of the police force to effectively investigate the matter. In addition to the two recent reported cases, over the past years we have had other outstanding cases of missing persons or enforced disappearance which the police have not been able to bring any closure to nor prosecute anyone connected to these cases.

“Arid is calling on the police force to review its protocol on ‘reporting of missing persons’ and to consider removing the time frame of 24 hours before an official report can be made and activated as a missing person.  To enhance public awareness and sensitisation on missing persons and to establish direct links and network with regional police forces for timely intervention. 

“We are also calling on the communities to assist the police with reliable information and to support family members of the victims.

“In conclusion, Arid commends all citizens involved in the civic search operations done especially in the case of Marvin Asba.  As citizens, it is our obligation to assist all the relevant authorities and to report anyone involved in such criminal activities.” 

Disclaimer:

The views expressed in this communiqué are those of the writer and association and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Seychelles NATION newspaper.