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Julian Assange 'rape victim' criticises UN decision over detention

The woman, named only as SW, described the UN’s decision as being 'offensive' and said she wants 'vindication'

Saturday 06 February 2016 16:04 GMT
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange speaks to the media from a balcony of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange speaks to the media from a balcony of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London (EPA)

Julian Assange’s alleged rape victim has called for him to “take responsibility”, as she criticized the UN for ruling he has been illegally detained.

The woman, named only as SW, described the UN’s decision as being “offensive” and said she wants “vindication”.

“Assange should take responsibility and let the investigation move forward,” she told the Mirror.

SW’s solicitor, Elisabeth Massi Fritz, believes Mr Assange has “deliberately withheld himself from the judicial system for over five years.”

“That a man arrested on probable cause for rape should be awarded damages because he has deliberately withheld himself from the judicial system for over five years is insulting and offensive to my client – and all victims.

“It is time that Assange packs his bag, steps out of the embassy and begins to cooperate with the Swedish Prosecuting Authority.

“The panel seems to have a lack of understanding of the fact the alleged rape of a woman is one of the most serious violations and abuses of human rights,” Ms Fritz told the Mirror.

David Cameron branded the decision as “ridiculous” and Foreign Secretary Phillip Hammond tweeted his disappointment saying he rejects the UN report.

The WikiLeaks founder is wanted for questioning in Sweden over an alleged sexual assault dating back to 2010.

Mr Assange is currently refusing to leave the Ecuadorian embassy in Central London in fear that Sweden will send him to the US to face espionage charges.

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