Ecuador: HRW.org reports Security Forces used excessive force during Sept. protests

hrw.org reported Security forces used excessive force to disperse largely peaceful demonstrations in Quito, Ecuador on September 17 and 18, 2014, arbitrarily detaining and beating protesters, Human Rights Watch said today. Based on interviews and written testimony, dozens of detainees suffered serious physical abuse, including severe beatings, kicks, and electric shocks, during arrest and in detention.

A minority of protesters engaged in violence, clashing with police and leaving more than 30 officers injured. However, local human rights advocates who were at the demonstrations or interviewed detainees told Human Rights Watch that the victims of abuse included many peaceful protesters and bystanders. Read Article