In an attempt to break up the hunger strike protest, Transfield officers have begun rounding up asylum seekers’ compound leaders.
At least four leaders of different nationalities – one from Mike, one from Oscar, and two from Foxtrot – have been seized and taken to the high security Chauka isolation unit.
Up to 40 Transfield riot squad officers raided the Foxtrot compound around 1.00am this morning (Sunday 18 January), looking for other community leaders.
The riot squad also attempted to force water down the throat of two unconscious asylum seekers in the compound. They also threatened that a special forces unit will come from Port Moresby ‘to deal with you’ unless the hunger strike was ended by this morning.
Foxtrot asylum seekers have sent another letter explaining that PNG is not safe and appealing to the Minister to halt the forced transfers of asylum seekers on 22 January (photos attached).
“Taking leaders hostage or using the riot squad won’t stop the hunger strike protest,” said Ian Rintoul, from the Refugee Action Coalition. “The tactics are eerily similar to those that ended in tragedy in February last year.
“The Minister has said he supports ‘discussion and negotiations’. He must act urgently to prevent a tragedy on Manus Island.”
For more information contact Ian Rintoul 0417 275 713 or Chris Breen 0403 013 183
