Summary
Thirteen people, including an Olympic cyclist, were released from a prison in Eritrea after being held for more than 18 years without trial. The Eritrean government has not commented on the reasons for their release. The prison where they were held is known for its tough conditions and housing political prisoners.
Key Facts
- Thirteen detainees were released from Mai Serwa prison in Eritrea after over 18 years without a trial.
- Among those freed is Zeragaber Gebrehiwot, an Olympic cyclist who competed in 1980.
- Zeragaber was detained in 2007 after an assassination attempt on a senior Eritrean security officer.
- The Eritrean government has not issued a statement regarding the release.
- The prison is known for harsh conditions and is located near the capital, Asmara.
- Families were not allowed to visit the prisoners during their detention.
- Human rights groups have criticized Eritrea for human rights violations and lack of political freedom.
- Eritrea has no free press and has been under the same leadership for over 30 years without elections.
