Refugee advocates are warning of new dangers of attacks on asylum seekers if local staff are re-introduced into the Manus Island detention centre.
Local and national PNG staff and police have been excluded from the detention centre since the night of 17 February when Reza Berati was killed and at least 77 others brutally bashed.
There are now moves by senior detention management to allow local PNG security staff back into the detention centre as soon as today (Tuesday 11 March).
The move has terrified asylum seekers in the camp. Since the 17 February, asylum seekers have been subject to daily threats of being attacked and killed. “Locals” make throat-cutting gestures directed at asylum seekers and there are reports of protests by machete wielding locals outside the perimeter wire of the detention centre.
The asylum seekers are also being pressured to agree to the re-introduction of locals by declining food quality and amount, which is being prepared outside the camp. Authorities have rejected offers by the asylum seekers to prepare and cook the food themselves.
Siren warning letter adds to fears
The letter pictured, circulated in Mike Compound in the last 24 hours, about a siren warning should police enter their compound has heightened asylum seekers’ fears.
“The letter is completely absurd and indicates the Immigration Department is completely unwilling to protect asylum seekers on Manus Island. The very people who killed Reza Berati on 17 February are again being promoted as defenders of the asylum seekers,” said Ian Rintoul, spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition.
“Re-introducing the local staff and police is a recipe for another disaster. Scott Morrison is complicit in the murder of Reza and with the on-going regime of terror on Manus Island.
“The asylum seekers must be brought to Australia to ensure their safety.”
The safety of asylum seekers must also be guaranteed before they can give evidence to the inquiry led by PNG Chief Justice Canning.
The first hearings are expected on Manus Island on 17 March.
“Asylum seekers will not be able to give evidence freely while their attackers remain at large. As long as the detention centre is open to those who killed and attacked them, there is a possibility of bloody retribution to rival the 17 February,” said Ian Rintoul.
For more information contact Ian Rintoul mob 0417 275 713
