Greece Launches Investigation into Pakistani Migrant's Death in Police Custody

Athens, Greece - The death of a 37-year-old Pakistani migrant, Muhammad Kamran Ashiq, while in police custody has sparked outrage and calls for justice, prompting the Greek Ministry of Citizens’ Protection to order an independent investigation.

Ashiq was found dead on September 21st at the Agios Panteleimon police station in Athens, where he had been detained following an altercation with a woman who later declined to press charges. However, Ashiq's family alleges he was brutally tortured while being transferred between five different police stations over an eight-day period, and was found with numerous bruises and injuries.

Adding to the controversy, the Greek activist group KEERFA (Movement United Against Racism and the Fascist Threat), along with Ashiq's family and the Pakistan Community of Greece, accused the police of attempting to cover up a potential murder. They allege that Ashiq, dubbed a victim of a "midnight express" of police brutality, was denied access to legal counsel and family during his detention. KEERFA demands the resignation of the police leadership and vows to continue their fight for justice.

The Ministry of Citizens' Protection, responding to mounting public pressure, has tasked the Ombudsman to lead a swift and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ashiq's death. Their stated aim is to "leave absolutely no shadow" regarding the incident and address concerns over potential police brutality.

This case comes amidst heightened scrutiny of law enforcement practices in Greece. The Hellenic League for Human Rights (HLHR) recently published a report highlighting a concerning increase in police brutality cases in recent years.

Adding to the grim news, the Greek Coast Guard recovered the body of a woman after a boat carrying 16 migrants capsized southeast of the island of Kos, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.