UN expert deeply concerned about human rights situation in Darfur, Sudan

A United Nations expert today voiced deep concern about the situation of human rights defenders working in the Darfur region of Sudan and urged the country's Government to ensure their protection.

Hina Jilani said she had received information regarding "a number of alleged arbitrary arrests and detentions" of people monitoring and reporting on the human rights situation in the area.

She also cited "credible information" that the freedom of movement of these defenders is being curtailed, particularly their access to conflict areas.

Ms. Jilani voiced particular concern to the Sudanese authorities about reported harassment against the Sudan Organization Against Torture. One of its members, Salih Mahmoud, was reportedly arrested on 1 February by members of the National Security Agency and remains in detention in the Kober Prison in the capital Khartoum.

Noting that no official charges have been brought against Mr. Mahmoud, Ms. Jilani said his arbitrary detention "may be connected to his human rights activities and in particular the provision of free legal aid and legal representation to victims of human rights abuses in the Darfur region."