The statement below was written on behalf of Manus Island detention centre as a tribute to the murdered asylum seeker, Reza Berati (pictured).
“Today’s harrowing report that Reza head may have been crushed by the boots of G4S guards highlights the fact that the Minister cannot guarantee the safety of asylum seekers on Manus Island. Reza’s killers may still be working inside the Manus Island detention centre,” said Ian Rintoul.
“Scott Morrison seems oblivious to the danger in which he has left the asylum seekers. Morrison said he could promise safety if the asylum seekers stayed inside the detention centre, but that is exactly where the asylum seekers were attacked.
“Morrison has sent Lieutenant-General Angus Campbell to boost security, but the asylum seekers need protection from the guards and the PNG police.
“There is also a danger that valuable evidence will be lost to any inquiry into Reza’s death because G4S is handing control of the Manus Island detention centre to Transfield this Saturday.”
For more information contact Ian Rintoul 0417 275 713
Staff tribute to Reza Berati
Staff from inside the centre want to express their distress and devastation at the loss of Reza Berati. We want to convey our sincere condolences to Reza’s family, and state we are grieving with them. We are sorry that Australia was unable to provide safety for Reza.
Reza was known to staff to be kind, gentle and very popular amongst the asylum seekers. Reza had a keen love of sport, and was studying hard to learn English. Reza always spoke to staff with care and respect, Reza was known to always look after his friends when they were in need.
Staff know that he would never have participated in any riot or protest actions. He was not known to have had any previous altercation with staff inside the centre, he held a low security risk rating, an was transferred to MIKE compound for good behaviour.
Again, we want to state that Reza was kind and gentle, we are devastated at this terrible, needless loss of Reza’s life. We are deeply sorry that we let you down Reza.
