Uzbek prisoner's death detailed

The Uzbek government says a prisoner who was allegedly tortured to death in jail last year died of high blood pressure, pneumonia, tuberculosis and anaemia.

The prisoner, Orif Ershanov, died after he was arrested for spreading anti-government religious leaflets.

Witnesses who saw his body said it was heavily bruised and bore signs of torture.

The government says Mr Ershanov's injuries were caused by first aid given to him when he became ill.

The US State Department and several international organizations called for an explanation from the Uzbek authorities.

The UN Special Rapporteur on Torture says the use of torture in Uzbekistan is systemic.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service