(Newser)
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The United Nations has launched an investigation into reports that treatment of the army private suspected of leaking classified information to WikiLeaks amounts to torture. Bradley Manning is being held aboard a floating brig in Quantico, Va., where he's not allowed to exercise during his 23 hours of solitary confinement a day, reports AP. If Manning tries to do any kind of exercise in his cell, he's immediately ordered to stop, according to his attorney, who also complained about the harsh conditions of the brig.
The UN office on torture issues in Geneva launched its probe after receiving a complaint from one of Manning's supporters about his treatment in custody, though the supporter was not identified. The UN could ask the US to halt violations if officials determine Manning is being tortured. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who refuses to reveal his sources, has called Mannng a "political prisoner." Manning's living conditions "have been getting worse and worse and worse in his cell as they attempt to pressure him into testifying against me," he said. "That's a serious problem." US officials deny Manning's treatment amounts to torture, saying he is being kept safe and secure.
