ZADHR PRESS RELEASE

16 January 2019 2000HRS

UPDATE ON THE HUMAN RIGHTS CRISIS IN ZIMBABWE

The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights wishes to share with stakeholders critical information on the unfolding human rights crisis in Zimbabwe following the outbreak of violent protests across the country and the ensuing disproportionate response by the state apparatus.

To date ZADHR network of Doctors across the country both in the public and private sector have attended to a total of 172 cases. 68 cases were gunshot wounds with the affected individuals sustaining severe injuries which required urgent surgery in most cases. The remainder of the cases ranged from assaults with sharp objects, booted feet, baton sticks, sjamboks and tarmac abrasions. ZADHR is also deeply worried by cases of dog bites following the alleged unleashing of police dogs on those in police custody in Kadoma. 3 such cases has been documented. This constitutes a serious violation of human rights as the state is supposed to guarantee the protection of those in police custody. ZADHR also witnessed with shock and condemnation the dragging of patients with life threatening conditions to court. There are cases of patients who had chest trauma (haemopneumothorax ) and fractured limbs ( femur) who were forcibly taken from hospital to attend court despite the advise of doctors.

ZADHR has it on record that 17 individuals have to date underwent emergency surgery as they had life threatening conditions. More cases continue to be reported to the Association as many people were barricaded from communication and accessing treatment facilities.

ZADHR continues to tally and collate information regarding the deceased, and those injured in overall and the information will be shared promptly.

ZADHR INFORMATION DEPARTMENT