'These new allegations only underline the need for a full, impartial and independent inquiry that establishes what happened and who was responsible.

'If necessary, these investigations should go to the very top of the chain of command. The fact that allegations are still surfacing indicates that abuse in US facilities was systematic and not conducted merely by a ‘few rotten apples'.'

Amnesty International has received frequent reports of torture or other ill-treatment by coalition forces. Detainees have reported being routinely subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment during arrest and detention.

Many have told Amnesty International that they were tortured and ill-treated by US and UK troops during interrogation. Methods often reported include prolonged sleep deprivation; beatings; prolonged restraint in painful positions, sometimes combined with exposure to loud music; prolonged hooding; and exposure to bright lights. Virtually none of the allegations of torture or ill-treatment has been adequately investigated by the authorities.

Amnesty International is calling for investigations into alleged abuses by Coalition Forces to be conducted by a body that is competent, impartial and independent, and seen to be so, and that any findings of such investigations be made public. In addition reparation, including compensation, must be paid to the victims or to their families.

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