- Celebrating rebel forces in Libya; Source: Flickr (B.R.Q.)
The allegations include overcrowded prisons, beatings and other physical abuse on the side of the rebels; troops loyal to Gaddafi are accused of rape, enforced disappearances, torture and the coordinated killing of detainees. AI urged both sides to protect detainees from torture.
On Thursday, rebels found a hospital in Tripoli containing more than 200 decomposing bodies. It is believed that the injured people were left behind after doctors and nurses fled due to the eruption of fighting. 17 people survived and were taken away from the hospital for treatment by the Red Cross. Pro-Gaddafi forces and snipers allegedly occupied the hospital until rebel forces secured the building and found the cruel scene.
The fighting in the Libyan capital Tripoli has died down and people are slowly showing signs of joy and hope. However, it remains unclear how the political situation will evolve with conflicts of interest among the rebel forces and the numerous tribes very likely to impede stability in the near future.
AI: Both sides in Libya conflict must protect detainees from torture
BBC News: Libya: Hundreds of bodies found at Tripoli hospital
