World Organization Against Torture seeks doctor for Ilie Cazac

The World Organization Against Torture (OMCT) reiterates its previous call to the Transnistrian authorities to guarantee that Illie Cazac is promptly examined by an independent doctor and to allow his transfer to a hospital where he can receive adequate medical care. According to a communique from the organization, the International Secretariat of OMCT has been informed that Illie Cazac remains detained in Tiraspol Penitentiary No.2, without access to an independent doctor and at risk of further threats and harassment. “OMCT remains gravely concerned about the safety and physical and psychological integrity of Ilie Cazac and of his family and reiterates its call to the de facto Transnistrian authorities to guarantee his safety at all times,” it is said in the communiqué. According to the information received by the OMCT, two criminal detainees, who had been previously detained along with Illie Cazac in Penitentiary No. 1/ Glinaia in summer 2010, and who had allegedly beaten and threatened him with death and rape, were recently transferred to Tiraspol Penitentiary No.2 without any particular reason. Thus, OMCT fears for the safety of Illie Cazac. Illie Cazac, an appointed inspector at the Bender tax inspectorate, was arrested on March 20, 2010 on alleged charges of state betrayal and espionage in favor of the Republic of Moldova. On February 9 this year, the young man was sentenced to 14 years in prison. To date, the details of the accusations remain unclear.