Claims of violence during arrests and transfers
A series of legal complaints and filings before human rights bodies have placed the conduct of security forces under intense scrutiny following recent operations in Buenos Aires. The allegations describe extremely serious incidents, including beatings, excessive use of force, abuse during arrests, and practices that may amount to torture.
The complaints were filed by individuals detained during protests and police controls, who reported being subjected to physical violence both in public spaces and inside official facilities. According to testimonies, several of the victims were already restrained or handcuffed at the time of the alleged abuse.
Serious injuries and medical evidence
The filings include medical certificates documenting severe injuries such as trauma, wounds caused by rubber bullets, fractures, and eye damage. In some cases, victims stated that they were denied immediate medical attention or faced obstacles when seeking health care after the incidents.
Experts noted that the injuries described are consistent with the improper use of so-called less-lethal weapons and with practices prohibited under national and international standards governing the treatment of detainees.
Political responsibility and security policies
The complaints directly pointed to security policies promoted by Minister Patricia Bullrich, who had publicly announced a hard-line approach toward social protests and public-order enforcement. According to lawyers and complainants, these directives created an environment that encouraged excessive use of force.
Critics argued that the operations were carried out with insufficient oversight and broad discretion granted to officers on the ground, enabling abuses and violations of fundamental rights.
Torture, cruel treatment, and legal standards
The legal filings argue that some of the reported conduct may fall under serious criminal offenses, including torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Legal experts emphasized that such practices are expressly prohibited by Argentina’s Constitution and by international treaties binding on the country.
Concerns were also raised about the use of detention as an intimidating tool and the criminalization of social protest, practices that undermine the rule of law and core due-process guarantees.
Calls for investigation and accountability
Given the seriousness of the allegations, there were strong demands for independent investigations to establish both individual and command responsibility. Complainants called for the preservation of evidence, identification of the officers involved, and a thorough review of policing protocols.
Taken together, the complaints have once again brought the issue of state violence to the forefront of public debate, underscoring the need for effective oversight of security forces and the obligation of the state to prevent and punish institutional abuse.
