How do you complain about mistreatment by the police and ask for compensation?
Rigth to complain
If you believe that police officers have treated you unlawfully during police custody, you have the right to complain about their behaviour.
You have the right to complain if you believe that the police used excessive force when arresting and/or escorting you, and also during your stay in your cell. You can also complain if the police did not ensure that your basic needs were met. For example, they did not provide you with food or water, did not call for medical aid when necessary or if they did not allow you to inform your family or employer about your arrest.
Where to submit the complaint?
You can complain about unlawful treatment to the Ministry of the Interior.
When filing the claim, you should explain all the relevant facts, the type of violation, how it occurred and add evidence, if you have any. They might ask you for more explanations or documentation, where necessary. You can read about how to submit a complaint on the website of the Ministry of the Interior.
You have the right to receive a response to your application in writing within 90 days. The decision about your complaint is final.
If the violation against you resulted in a criminal offence, the Specialised State Prosecutor's Office is responsible for the investigation and prosecution of the offence.
Compensation
You can also request compensation if you believe that your rights were violated due to the mistreatment by the police.
Read more how to request compensation: