Mugabe Urged to Free Rebels

ZIMBABWE came under international pressure last night to release prisoners taken in a ‘ violent attack’ by police on a prayer meeting.

Morgan Tsvangirai, head of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change, is said to have head injuries after being beaten in police custody. Colleagues claim police tried to assassinate him.

Foreign Office Minister Lord Triesman said he held Zimbabwean leader Robert Mugabe responsible for the detainees’ welfare.

The U.S. also condemned the ‘brutal’ attack, in which a protester was shot dead.

Lord Triesman said: ‘I utterly condemn the violent and unwarranted action taken by the Zimbabwe government when riot police disrupted a peaceful and legitimate gathering.

‘The situation in Zimbabwe is appalling and is a direct consequence of Mugabe’s approach.’ Human rights groups said Mr Tsvangirai and other politicians were tortured in custody.

Sunday’s meeting in Harare was organised by opposition, church and civic groups in defiance of a ban on political rallies.

Scores of people were arrested as riots flared across the country following the crackdown.

(c) 2007 Daily Mail; London (UK). Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.