Swiss police officer denies assaulting two asylum seekers in brutal 2023 incidents
A Basel police officer is standing trial for allegedly assaulting two asylum seekers in separate incidents during early 2023. The case, which began in May 2024, centres on claims of excessive force, including choking and repeated strikes. Prosecutors are pushing for a prison sentence of nearly four years.
The first incident reportedly took place in February 2023, when the officer allegedly attacked an asylum seeker after the man refused to show identification. The victim later described the officer's behaviour as 'very aggressive' and confirmed the assault in court. Medical reports supported claims of injuries from strangulation and blunt force.
In March 2023, the same officer is accused of choking another asylum seeker until he lost consciousness. Prosecutors argued that these actions represented a 'ruthless abuse of power' and a clear overstepping of authority. The officer, however, denied all charges, stating, *'I would never do that. It simply didn't happen.'* The defence team called for a full acquittal, pointing to inconsistencies in the case. They highlighted that the choking incident was not mentioned during the victim's initial police questioning. Meanwhile, the accused officer was suspended from administrative duties last November while awaiting the trial's outcome.
The trial continues as prosecutors demand an unconditional prison term of three years and seven months. The verdict will determine whether the officer returns to duty or faces imprisonment. No public statements from human rights groups regarding the case have been reported so far.
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