Amnesty International has called for an independent investigation into alleged abuses by Togo’s security forces during recent anti-government protests.
The West African nation, ruled by Faure Gnassingbe and his late father for nearly six decades, faced rare demonstrations in the capital, Lomé.
Protesters opposed electricity price hikes, arrests of government critics, and constitutional changes tightening Gnassingbe’s hold on power.
At least seven people were killed, dozens wounded, and more than 60 arrested, according to civil society groups monitoring the unrest.
Amnesty interviewed victims and witnesses who reported unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests, torture, and abductions by security personnel during banned protests in late June.
Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty’s interim director for West and Central Africa, said these serious allegations demand urgent, transparent investigation.
The group also highlighted the ongoing disappearance of at least six people following the protests and condemned torture during earlier June demonstrations.
Authorities stated two bodies found in a lagoon after the protests were drowning victims, but did not clarify other casualties.
Lawyer Darius Atsoo said the total number detained remains unknown, though at least 31 protesters were still held as of Monday.
Togo’s prolonged political grip has fueled growing frustration, culminating in rare public defiance met with violent repression.
Amnesty’s call underscores international concern over human rights violations amid the country’s turbulent political landscape.
