Nairobi/Dakar - The international lobby group Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Monday warned that the military in Guinea was escalating the number of human rights abuses against civilians. The west African state has been in flux since the death of long- serving president Lansana Conte last December, after which the army seized power and suspended the constitution.

"The coup seems to have opened up a rash of abuses by the military; the impunity enjoyed by these soldiers must come to an end," said Corinne Dufka, senior West Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch.

"The coup leaders need to bring the rank and file under control, and ensure those responsible for these abuses are promptly investigated and prosecuted."

HRW recorded 19 separate incidents where heavily armed soldiers raided homes, shops, office and warehouses in broad daylight - often appearing "intoxicated," according to witnesses.

Items stolen include cars, computers, medicines and cash.

Some victims of the robberies were also physically assaulted. HRW recorded one incidence of rape - on March 31 of a 15-year old girl by a soldier.

Conte died on December 22, 2008, and the coup leaders, led by self-proclaimed president Captain Moussa Dadis Camara, pledged to eventually hold fresh elections this year. (dpa)