WASHINGTON, Oct 17 (KUNA) -- The United States expressed on Monday concerns about the detention situation of prisoners of Sub-Saharan descent in Libya.
"We remain concerned that sub-Saharan migrants are still being detained based apparently on their skin color and an assumption that they have supported Gaddafi. Moreover, we remain troubled by reports of their treatment while in detention", said the State Department in a sattement.
"We urge the TNC to honor its stated commitment to the rule of law and respect for the universal human rights of all people in Libya. We will continue to engage the TNC on this issue moving forward", added the statement.
A report by Amnesty International, released last week, noted that there is "widespread" prisoner abuse with indications of torture of detainees and arbitraru detention, mainly in the case of Sub-Saharan Africans and black Libyans.
"Additionally, we remain very concerned about the fate of the civilians, non-combatants and detainees in Sirte. We call on all parties to avoid civilian casualties, to treat prisoners in accordance with International Humanitarian Law, and to refrain from all acts of retribution", concluded the State Department. (end) jm.bs KUNA 172225 Oct 11NNNN