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OSCE requests investigation of alleged human rights abuses in Albania
TIRANA 30 January 2001
TIRANA, 30 January 2001 - As part of its commitment to monitor human rights issues, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe has made a formal request to the Albanian authorities to undertake a full and thorough investigation into the recent allegations made by Mr. Azgan Haklaj. The OSCE also received assurances that such an investigation will be conducted.
The OSCE Chairman-in-Office and the OSCE Presence in Albania take note of the statement made by Minister of Public Order, Ilir Gjoni, reminding the people of Albania of the obligation placed upon the National Police Forces to respect Human Rights at all times, in accordance with International Human Rights conventions.
OSCE representatives, with the full support of the Ministries of Justice and Public Order, visited Mr Azgan Haklaj in prison. The OSCE is able to confirm that Mr Haklaj has received injuries: bruising and lacerations, which are consistent with his allegation of police assault whilst in police custody.
Furthermore, the OSCE acknowledges the risks and difficult conditions under which police officers work in Albania, and urges officers to act professionally and within the law at all times, thereby playing their part in building a country governed by rule of law.
For more information, please contact Ms. Carola Reissland, Spokesperson, OSCE Presence in Albania, tel.: ++ 355 42 35 993 ext. 123, fax: ++ 355 42 35 994 ext. 40002, e-mail : [email protected]
The OSCE Chairman-in-Office and the OSCE Presence in Albania take note of the statement made by Minister of Public Order, Ilir Gjoni, reminding the people of Albania of the obligation placed upon the National Police Forces to respect Human Rights at all times, in accordance with International Human Rights conventions.
OSCE representatives, with the full support of the Ministries of Justice and Public Order, visited Mr Azgan Haklaj in prison. The OSCE is able to confirm that Mr Haklaj has received injuries: bruising and lacerations, which are consistent with his allegation of police assault whilst in police custody.
Furthermore, the OSCE acknowledges the risks and difficult conditions under which police officers work in Albania, and urges officers to act professionally and within the law at all times, thereby playing their part in building a country governed by rule of law.
For more information, please contact Ms. Carola Reissland, Spokesperson, OSCE Presence in Albania, tel.: ++ 355 42 35 993 ext. 123, fax: ++ 355 42 35 994 ext. 40002, e-mail : [email protected]