HRW’s report on demonstrations in Quito, Ecuador Sept 17,18 – 2014

hrw.org reported sSecurity 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.

“Protesters who engage in violence should expect to be held to account, but under no circumstances should they be brutalized in detention, nor should their due process rights be violated,” said José Miguel Vivanco, Americas executive director at Human Rights Watch. “And there is no excuse for using violence against peaceful protesters or bystanders.” Read Article

SAFETY AND SECURITY IN ECUADOR – READ THIS BOOK