Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders Annual Report 2002 - Burundi

Ill-treatment against Iteka members17

When an Iteka League delegation went into Bururi district on 15th February 2002 to open a new branch, the team's driver Mr. Edouard Banani was arrested. District Commander Major Bizuru accused him of coming to the district on a "suspect" mission, slapped his face, dragged him on the ground and tore up his licence before locking him in the town brigade's cells. When Mr. Edouard Biha, national co-ordinator of Iteka branches, asked the major why he had arrested Mr. Banani, the major slapped his face in public and tore his jacket. Mr. Banani was released the following evening. The delegation's vehicle was seized and kept by the brigade.

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