UN condemns torture in PNG

The United Nations system in Papua New Guinea has condemned the brutal torture of three women and a man in Southern Highlands Province.

The four are reported to have been stripped naked, tied to poles, and burnt with hot rods following accusations of sorcery.

The UN system says these acts violate a person's right to life and to be treated with dignity and respect.

It says the acts violates a person's right to be free from cruel and inhumane treatment.

It calls on authorities to act urgently to save the victims and provide them medical and other support services.

The UN system stresses the urgency for authorities to prioritize efforts to address sorcery accusation-related violence, especially with the potential aggravating impacts caused by the current El Niño.

The United States Embassy made similar calls this week urging authorities to step in quickly.