The United Nations has found evidence of systematic torture carried out by Myanmar security forces, and has identified some perpetrators in high positions.
The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2018, released a report on the 12th stating that victims in Myanmar's detention facilities have suffered beatings, electric shocks, strangulation, and other forms of torture, including having their fingernails pulled out with pliers.
IIMM chief Nicholas Koumjian said: "We have found substantial evidence, including eyewitness testimony, indicating the existence of systematic torture in Myanmar's detention facilities."
The 16-page report points out that the torture has on occasion resulted in death. Among those tortured are children, who often become substitute hostages for their missing parents and are illegally detained.
The report said that Myanmar's military government has rejected more than 20 requests from the UN team for information relating to these crimes, as well as applications to enter Myanmar.
The report notes that, so far, perpetrators identified include senior commanders.
However, since investigations are still ongoing, the IIMM has not published the specific identities of the perpetrators.