Members of Zimbabwean GLBT group GALZ (Gays and Lesbians of Zimbabwe) were arrested earlier this week and detained without charge.

GALZ reports that 44 members were arrested at the GALZ office soon after the launch of the GALZ Violations Report and briefing of the second draft Zimbabwe Constitution.

Thirty-one men and 13 women members were detained at Harare Central Police Station.

The statement says, “Four police officers attempted to gain entry into the premises before calling for back up where about 15 riot squad members descended on the office and effected arrest. Police assaulted most of the members using baton sticks, open hands and clenched fists before detaining them without charge.
Zimbabwe Lawyers for human rights were denied access to see all members detained.”

GALZ says the group was later released, and the group is now working together to assess their condition and wellbeing.