A group of University students were abducted, tortured, detained and some murdered by the Narcotics unit of the Treasury police. Many of the arrests were described inaccurately as drug related when charges were filed. A domestic investigation was conducted and criminal charges were brought against several members of the police unit. However, following threats to the judge and a murder of his advisor, the accused were released. The Court held that the state was in violation of rights to life, fair trial, humane treatment, dignity, liberty and effective judicial remedy.
Citation: Paniagua Morales et al v Guatemala (Merits) IACtHR Series C No 37 (8 March 1998)