Sudanese authorities urged to probe killing of demonstrators
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OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani
The government of Sudan has been urged by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to investigate the killing of demonstrators in Darfur earlier this week.
The UN human rights chief is also calling on the government to immediately and unconditionally release the people who have been detained for reportedly protesting over rising prices.
Ravina Shamdasani is a spokesperson for the Office of the UN human rights chief in Geneva.
"Security forces in Darfur are believed to have killed at least eight people – at least five of whom were young students aged 17 and below – and injured more than 50 on Tuesday when they opened fire at demonstrators in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur. Eye witnesses have also reported the use of heavy tear gas, in addition to the live bullets. We urge the Government to promptly launch an independent and credible investigation into the violence and the apparent excessive use of force by security forces. "
(Duration: 27")
Ravina Shamdasani said there are key international guidelines that must be respected in handling protests so that the legitimate right of people to freedom of expression and assembly are fully respected.
