KHARTOUM, Sudan, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- The United Nations Human Rights Office on Friday called on Sudanese law enforcement officials to "show utmost restraint" when dealing with protesters.
The human right office's concern comes after at least 30 were killed during protests across Sudan against the government's decision to suspend fuel subsidies, the office said in a release.
"We are deeply concerned about reports that a significant number of people have been killed during the demonstrations taking place across Sudan since Monday," said Cecile Pouilly, spokesperson for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
"Security forces are reported to have used excessive force in suppressing the protests, with security agents allegedly firing live ammunition at some protesters and beating others," Pouilly said. "Witnesses speak of bodies of dead demonstrators with gunshot wounds in the upper torso and head. There have also been reports of destruction of property by demonstrators."
Pouilly called on law enforcement officials to "show utmost restraint and make sure that they comply at all times with international human rights obligations and international standards on policing."
"We call on all parties to refrain from resorting to violence and on protesters to maintain the peaceful nature of their demonstrations," she added. "We also urge the authorities to respect the civil liberties of those protesting and, in particular, their right to assemble peacefully and express their views."
