Clarification on Investigation Committees and Legal Authority
Port Sudan, Nov. 10 – The Public Prosecution Office has issued a statement to address recent reports circulating on social media about the formation of an investigation committee by entities not affiliated with the office itself. This clarification comes in response to the tragic events that unfolded in El Fasher following an incursion by rebel militia, which led to widespread violence, including murder, looting, and sexual assault, as well as the forced displacement of civilians.
The statement emphasizes that the Public Prosecution Office is the only legally authorized body to establish investigation committees for criminal matters. This authority is grounded in several legal frameworks, including the 2019 Constitutional Document, Article (30) of the 2017 Public Prosecution Office Law, and Article (20) of the 1991 Criminal Procedure Code.
Legal Framework and Jurisdiction
According to the official statement, the Public Prosecution Office maintains exclusive jurisdiction over the investigation and registration of criminal cases. It strongly advises all entities to refrain from attempting to exercise this responsibility and urges the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
The statement outlines the legal basis for the Public Prosecution’s authority:
- Constitutional Document (2019):Establishes the framework for the legal system.
- Public Prosecution Office Law (2017), Article 30:Defines the role and powers of the Public Prosecution.
- Criminal Procedure Code (1991), Article 20:Outlines procedures for investigating crimes.
Actions Taken Following the Events in El Fasher
The Public Prosecution Office has taken immediate steps to address the situation in El Fasher. The Attorney General, who also serves as the chair of the National Committee for Investigating Crimes and Violations of National and International Humanitarian Law, directed the filing of criminal charges against those involved in the incidents.
The committee has already initiated extensive investigations, during which it has interviewed witnesses and gathered evidence confirming the involvement of elements within the rebel forces. These procedures are ongoing, and the office has assured the public that the process will continue until all facts are thoroughly examined.
Call for Responsibility and Caution
The Public Prosecution Office has reiterated its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring justice for all victims of the violence in El Fasher. It has called on individuals and organizations to exercise caution and avoid spreading unverified information that could mislead the public or interfere with the proper functioning of the legal system.
This statement serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to legal procedures and respecting the roles of authorized institutions in maintaining order and delivering justice.
Key Points from the Statement
- The Public Prosecution Office is the sole entity legally authorized to form investigation committees for crimes.
- The authority is based on multiple legal documents, including the 2019 Constitutional Document and the 1991 Criminal Procedure Code.
- The Attorney General has directed the filing of criminal charges and initiated investigations into the events in El Fasher.
- The office urges the public to avoid sharing unverified information and to respect the legal process.