Inside Eritrea’s Secret Prisons: Former Detainees Speak Out

ASMARA — Survivors of Eritrea’s notorious prison system have described harrowing conditions in secret detention facilities where torture and abuse are rampant.

Speaking to The Guardian, former prisoners recounted years of physical and psychological torment, including beatings, starvation, and isolation.

One survivor described the atmosphere of despair, saying, “It was almost a relief when someone died—it meant their suffering was finally over.”

Rights groups have long accused Eritrea’s government of gross human rights violations, including arbitrary detentions and systemic torture.

Despite mounting evidence, international efforts to hold Eritrean officials accountable remain stalled.

The revelations highlight the urgent need for global action to address widespread abuses and bring justice to victims in the reclusive East African nation.