Refugee advocates are deeply concerned at PNG police statements that they have ruled out “foul play” in regard to the death of Hamed.
“It is impossible for the PNG police to rule out foul play. The hastiness of the declaration only makes it look more suspicious,” said said Ian Rintoul, spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition.
“Anyone who has seen the photos knows that Hamed’s death is suspicious. And anyone who is familiar with Hamed’s circumstances, would know that Hamed had been arrested and beaten by the local police many times. The PNG police could not be relied on to carry out a thorough or impartial investigation. There are no facilities on Manus for an autopsy,” said Rintoul.
“There is an urgent need for an independent autopsy and investigation to establish the cause of death. It has been disgusting to watch the Turnbull government try to avoid its responsibility. An AFP officer was with Manus police at the scene where Hamed’s body was found near the school. The Australian government is directly implicated in Hamed’s death and this investigation.”
Meanwhile refugees and asylum seekers held a vigil for Hamed in Delta compound inside the detention centre Monday night.
The Refugee Action Coalition has called a lunchtime protest for Justice for Hamed, and Bring Them Here: 12.30pm, Wednesday 9 August, Sydney Commonwealth Government offices, 1 Bligh Street, City.
For more information contact Ian Rintoul 0417 275 713
