Mistreatment widespread post-coup attempt detentions in Turkey: UN expert Melzer

Mistreatment is widespread in post-coup attempt detentions in Turkey, U.N. human rights expert Nils Melzer has said, referring to numerous testimonies from inmates, their lawyers and civil society organizations he met last week in the country. 

"Torture and other forms of ill-treatment seem to have been widespread in the days and weeks following the failed coup, particularly at the time of the apprehension and during initial detention in police or gendarmerie lock-ups, as well as in unofficial detention locations," the special rapporteur said at a press conference after his six-day fact-finding mission to Turkey.  

His team was informed about harassment of women detainees, naked body searches for contact visitation, Melzer said, adding that many inmates have not filed complaints about the alleged mistreatment over fear of retaliation targeting their relatives. 
  
The special rapporteur said he has also received credible reports pointing to the inadequacy of the judicial response to allegations, with many interlocutors reporting that complaints submitted to the authorities were not effectively followed up.

"Furthermore, a climate of intimidation and distrust in the judicial system has discouraged victims, lawyers, doctors and human rights groups from filing complaints," Melzer said.

Some legislation and decree laws have created a suitable environment for torture and ill treatment, he noted, urging the Turkish government "to live up to Turkey's policy of zero tolerance on torture."

Melzer welcomed "the Turkish authorities' commitment to fight and prevent torture," but warned about "a disconnect between policy and reality conducive to impunity," particularly in the immediate aftermath of the failed military coup in...