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UN rights chief calls for swift probe into deadly clashes in Thailand

UN rights chief calls for swift probe into deadly clashes in Thailand

The United Nations human rights chief today called on authorities in Thailand to quickly investigate the killings of more than 112 people in the south of the country during confrontations between law enforcement officers and assailants.

Acting High Commissioner Bertrand Ramcharan said the probe into Wednesday’s clashes in the provinces of Yala, Pattani and Songkla should be “swift and transparent.” Five police officers and soldiers are reported to have died.

Mr. Ramcharan said under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials, “such officials are required to refrain from using force exceeding that strictly required by the exigencies of the situation.”

He urged that immediate measures be taken to ensure full respect for the human rights of all concerned, including those detained following Wednesday’s confrontations.