Manus: Mike compound ends its hunger strike

The compound that started the mass hunger strike on Manus Island has ended their hunger strike – 13 days after it began – for now at least.

It is expected that asylum seekers in Mike will begin eating this evening.

The protest was called off after Wilson’s security entered Foxtrot this (Monday) morning. It is reported that a number of people were arrested but there are no details available.

Wilson’s had flown reinforcements to the island on Sunday afternoon. The much-anticipated raids on the compounds began at Foxtrot this morning. Asylum seekers in Foxtrot were herded into the gym area, and guards began going room to room.

It is clear that Foxtrot was targeted because a lot of information was coming out of that compound.

“It is tragically ironic that the Immigration Department celebrated Australia Day by trying to stamp out free speech on Manus Island,” said Ian Rintoul, spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition.

“The information from Manus Island has put the lie to government statements about the mass protests since day one, when Minister Peter Dutton denied the protest was taking place. The government, the Minister, Transfield and Wilson’s have all been exposed as abusers of human rights on Manus.

“That news has gone around the world.

“The hunger strike has prevented the planned forced transfer of refugees to the accommodation at Lorengau that was planned for 22 January. Now the government must halt any plan to force refugees into that temporary housing. And address the stark fact that there are no arrangements for safe resettlement in PNG.

“Independent observers are still urgently needed to ensure there are no reprisals against compounds or individuals. Those held in isolation must be released. All of those in Lorengau jail must be returned to the detention centre.

“Sooner or later, the government will have to face up to the fact that offshore processing is untenable; the sooner the better.

“Manus Island must be closed and all of the asylum seekers and refugees must be brought to Australia.”

It is understood that the hunger strike is continuing in other compounds in the detention centre.

A photograph of a banner drawn by asylum seekers in Mike compound for Australia Day is below. Poignantly it celebrates an “enjoyment of freedom” for the Australian people – a freedom they are being denied.

For more information, contact Ian Rintoul mob 0417 275 713

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