People detained on suspicion of being involved in the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack were tortured. In photos and videos from the courtroom, the men show visible signs of torture. Dalerjon Mirzoyev’s face is covered with bruises and pieces of a plastic bag hang around his neck. Faridoun Shamsidin’s cheek is severely swollen and Saidakram Rajabalizoda’s ear is bandaged. Muhammadsobir Fayzov is brought in on a stretcher, wearing a catheter.
Asia-Plus had already written that experts note that victims of torture often admit to things they didn’t do in order to free themselves from violence at least for a while and whether the confessions extracted in this way can be considered valid.
Now, Asia-Plus has contacted Tajik Human Rights Ombudsman Umed Bobozoda to find out if he intends to contact the authorized bodies of Russia regarding the use of torture against Tajik citizens.
Umed Bobozoda stated in a written response that this issue is within the competence of the Prosecutor-General’s Office.
“For the purpose of non-interference in investigative actions and the administration of justice, the Human Rights Ombudsman of Tajikistan has so far refrained from contacting the Investigative Committee of Russia or making any statements through media,” Bobozoda added.
According to him, “he remains in close contact with his Russian counterpart on issues of protection of human rights and freedoms, including consideration of this case.”
Meanwhile, Interfax reported on March 26 that the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Russian Federation, Mrs. Tatiana Moskalkova, has condemned the use of torture against the terrorism suspects.
