In response to reports of police firing rubber bullets at students and a bystander being killed, allegedly by police, during student protests in Braamfontein today, Shenilla Mohamed, Executive Director of Amnesty International South Africa, said:
“We are seriously alarmed at reports that one person has been killed, allegedly by the police, and countless others shot at with rubber bullets. Security forces must guarantee students’ right to peaceful assembly and refrain from using excessive force. Students have a right to express their grievances and the authorities must respect this right. They must also ensure the protection of all bystanders. No one should die or be injured while exercising their basic rights.”
Mohamed called on law enforcement officials to comply with international and national laws and standards governing the use of force in policing protests, and only use force when necessary and proportionate.
“We call on the university authorities, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and Minister Blade Nzimande to expedite a prompt, independent and effective investigation into the shooting that led to the death of a bystander today, and make sure that, if force was used in an abusive manner, all those responsible are brought to justice. It is deeply concerning that the use of rubber bullets is still being condoned by the authorities,” said Mohamed.
BACKGROUND
Police fired rubber bullets at Wits students who were protesting over fees and registration issues in Braamfontein on Wednesday morning, following approximately two and a half weeks of peaceful protests.
A bystander has been shot and killed, allegedly by police.
The United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials among other international standards, clearly provide that law enforcement officials may only use force if other means remain ineffective or have no promise of achieving the intended result. When using force, law enforcement officials should exercise restraint and act in proportion to the seriousness of the offence and to the legitimate objective to be achieved.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REQUEST AN INTERVIEW, PLEASE CONTACT:
Jennifer Wells, Campaigner, Amnesty International South Africa: 0847766559; jennifer.wells@amnesty.org.za
Public Document
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