Ombudsman, SHRC announce investigation into Montagne Posée prison incident |13 March 2025
The Ombudsman and the Seychelles Human Rights Commission yesterday issued a joint press statement to announce the formal initiation of a comprehensive, independent, and impartial investigation into the incident at Montagne Posée Prison on December 5, 2024.
“After providing public authorities with a three-month period to complete their investigations, our institutions have completed all necessary preparatory measures for this complex investigation,” read the statement, adding that this approach is intended to “ensure the integrity, transparency, and effectiveness of the process”.
According to the statement, during the preparatory phase, the two institutions took key actions to lay a strong foundation for the investigation into the incident. These included resource mobilisation, specialised training for investigative teams and the development of institution-specific procedures aligned with their mandates and international best practices.
A Joint Investigation Protocol and Procedures were also drafted and issued on March 10, 2025, “created to ensure cross-institutional collaboration and adherence to international standards of impartiality and fairness.”
A comprehensive investigation plan was established, focusing on both the specific incident and potential underlying systemic issues, with clear phases and methodologies in place. The investigation will proceed through a structured series of phases designed to ensure rigor, accountability, and inclusivity, as follows:
- Collecting preliminary evidence from the public and any persons that witnessed or were affected by the incident.
- Collecting preliminary evidence from detained persons.
- Seeking a response from the relevant public authorities.
- Conducting investigative interviews (if necessary).
- Finalising evidence collection.
- Conducting analysis and report writing.
- Sending the Final Report and following up on Recommendations to the Relevant Authorities.
“It is important to note that the complexity of the incident encompasses multifaceted stakeholder engagement, a substantial volume of evidence, and possible systemic implications. As a result, the investigative timeline is estimated to last between six and nine months. This duration is consistent with international benchmarks for similar investigations, aiming to maintain thoroughness and accountability,” read the joint statement.
“The Ombudsman and the SHRC recognise the public concern regarding this matter and reaffirm our commitment to uncovering the truth, ensuring justice, and promoting institutional accountability.”
“We request the cooperation, patience, and trust of all stakeholders and the public as we carry out this investigation. Further updates will be provided at key milestones in accordance with the need to maintain the integrity of the investigation and protect the rights of all parties involved,” it further stated.
In order not to compromise the integrity of the process, the Ombudsman and Seychelles Human Rights Commission said they will not conduct any media interviews relating to this ongoing joint investigation and encourage the public to follow their social media pages to remain informed about the latest developments and publications that will be available on their websites.
Joint Press Release from the Office of the Ombudsman and the Seychelles Human Rights Commission