Lawyers say 46 accused of treason tortured
Published:Friday | February 25, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Harare (AP):
Lawyers for 46 people facing treason charges for allegedly plotting an Egyptian-style uprising in Zimbabwe disclosed yesterday that some members of the group were tortured by police.
Defence lawyer Alec Mucha-dehama told a Harare court yesterday that 12 suspects told lawyers they were beaten with broomsticks on their bodies, buttocks and the soles of their feet. They were arrested on Saturday for attending a lecture on North African anti-government protests.
He said others were denied medication and access to lawyers. Treason can be punishable by death.
State prosecutors allege the group of labour and social activists held the meeting to plan a revolt against long-time authoritarian ruler President Robert Mugabe.