Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported on Tuesday that Chad’s military was responsible for the deaths of several detainees following their arrests during the October 2022 protests. According to HRW, the detainees faced dire conditions while being transported from the capital, N’Djamena, to Koro Toro prison. Basic supplies such as food, water, and medical care were reportedly withheld, causing four detainees to die from “delirium and hunger” en route, with their bodies being discarded from trucks. Six additional detainees later died due to similar conditions within Koro Toro prison (HRW report).
HRW’s findings were based on interviews and satellite imagery, which revealed that prisoners were subjected to solitary confinement and forced labor. Although the recorded death toll was ten, HRW suggested that the actual number could be higher. The organization urged the Chadian government to close the older building of Koro Toro prison, repair its newer building, release those imprisoned without charges, and return the remains of the deceased to their families.
Additionally, HRW called upon Chad, the African Union, and the United Nations to investigate the violations occurring at Koro Toro prison. The 2023 Chadian Constitution prohibits arbitrary detention, abuse, torture, and guarantees due process, which contrasts with the reported conditions at the prison (Chadian Constitution).
The unrest in October 2022 was provoked by the government’s failure to transition to a civilian administration and postponing elections until 2024, which led to nation-wide protests. The protests saw a strong reaction from Chadian security forces, resulting in the arrest of 621 individuals (delayed transition, arrests).