Behind the idyllic mountain landscapes of Lesotho lies a dark reality where victims of army torture and police brutality are left scarred and silenced, struggling for justice in a broken system.
With few avenues for redress and a justice system that often fails to deliver on its promises, these victims are condemned to endure the lasting physical and emotional scars of their traumatic experiences, with their cries for justice falling on deaf ears.
While victims bravely step forward to share their stories, a clearer picture emerges of the rampant abuse of power within the country’s criminal justice system. From police cells to army barracks, the unchecked use of torture and brutality has become a chilling reality for many, leaving a trail of shattered lives and broken spirits.
In recent years, these cases have been repeatedly documented, with incidents of violence and ill-treatment against detainees, often leading to death. Despite the mounting evidence and increasing calls for accountability, justice remains elusive for victims, and perpetrators continue to enjoy impunity.
The stories of victims like Tšeliso Sekonyela, Liteboho Mahloane, Advocate Napo Mafaesa, Molemo Mosoeunyane, Kakaretso Tsapi, Retšelisitsoe Moeti, Thabiso Mohlolo, Motšoari Tsoafo and other civilians are tragically representatives of a larger pattern of army torture and police brutality in the country.
Sekonyela, who was detained by Thetsane Police Station on September 2021 on suspicion of liquor theft, passed away while in police custody, two days after detention. Sekonyela had reportedly informed his mother that he had been beaten by police in detention.
In January 2022, Advocate Napo Mafaesa was also detained by police officers on suspicion of hiding a client’s weapons. Police officers allegedly tortured him while trying to get a confession from him, even though he insisted he knew nothing about the gun. He was released the following morning.
Between July and August this year, Mahloane, Mosoeunyane, Tsapi, Moeti, Mohlolo were arrested by members of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) and taken to Mokotakoti army post near Maputsoe, on different occasions. They were allegedly handcuffed while being beaten with sticks and ordered to produce firearms which they explained they knew nothing about.
The victims were then taken to Ratjomose barracks where they were subjected to the same treatment for some days. Mahloane whose two legs and arm were broken during the abuse, was informed by a doctor that he may suffer permanent physical disability as a result.
Despite the horrific experiences and reports from victims, coupled with the urgent calls for action from non-governmental organisations, the perpetrators of these brutal acts have so far evaded justice, perpetuating a cycle of impunity and further eroding public trust in the legal system.
Mahloane feels profoundly disillusioned with the justice system in the country, which he says has failed to protect victims like himself.
He expressed disappointment in the fact that the very people who are meant to protect citizens are the ones committing the abuses, making it impossible for victims to trust anyone.
“It is disappointing that the people who are supposed to protect us are the ones torturing us. The police are supposed to keep us safe, but instead they’re hurting us. The army is supposed to defend our country, but all they’re doing is terrorise their own citizens. “This is becoming a trend. There is evidence of Basotho who have been left crippled but no one seems to care. The law enforcement
