EXTERNAL (for general distribution)AI Index: AFR 19/01/95

Distr: UA/SC

4 January 1995

Further information on UA 399/94 (AFR 19/01/94, 14 November 1994) - Death Penalty

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC:Dieudonné KALANGA BELLY

Antoine METENDE

Alain-Isaac GBABELE

Boris Barnabe WILI BONA

The four gendarmes named above were sentenced to death after having been found guilty of murder by the Permanent Military Court.

Amnesty International has learnt that on 4 December 1994 they escaped from prison. As long as they remain in this so-called state of illegality (état d'illégalité), the cassation procedure will allegedly be suspended.

For the time being no further action by the Urgent Action Network is required. Thanks to all those who have sent appeals.