SIU calls on international organisations to provide credible information, investigates allegations published by them

Manama, Mar. 12 (BNA): As part of constant follow up of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) on the media, the SIU announced that it is monitoring the allegations recently published by some organisations about mistreatment of defendants. The SIU is an independent judicial body within the judicial system of the Kingdom and undertakes its legal competencies to investigate and act in all allegations of mistreatment that occur against any accused person or witness during any stage of a criminal investigation. The Unit applies the highest levels of professionalism, independence and transparency. It adheres to all international principles and standards related to investigating such allegations, especially the Istanbul Protocol. The Unit has special division responsible for monitoring and documenting evidence. It also has a division for the protection of victims and witnesses, which is responsible for requests relating to protection measures contained in the Criminal Procedures Law. These requests can be made by any person who provides information to the unit and may be under threat and thus requiring witness protection. The division is also responsible for communicating with victims to inform them of the legal measures taken, the development of the investigation, and the results. The unit noted that the failure of these organisations to provide information related to the published allegations harms the rights of the mentioned persons. It also obstructs the investigation of the competent authorities and their ability to take the necessary legal measure in these allegations. The unit calls on these organisations to provide all the information in relation to these allegations to allow the SIU to investigate them. The Special Investigation Unit is always open to everyone who has any complaint or allegation without any repercussions, even if the allegations are not proven. The SIU is investigating the allegations that were published to verify and obtain accurate and relevant information. It will also take the necessary actions according to the established circumstances. The unit calls on anyone who has any information relating to what was published by those organisations, if correct, to submit a complaint or provide information to the unit. The SIU will provide them with utmost confidentiality and protection guaranteed by law. The Unit has already investigated an allegation published on social media platforms on 6/3/2021 relating to an individual being subjected to mistreatment. A member of the SIU met with the alleged injured party on 7/3/2021 to investigate the matter. Upon examination, he did not have or report any injuries or psychological symptoms. The investigation is continuing.