A COLOMBIAN trade unionist who was kidnapped and tortured after challenging oil companies will today bring his fight for justice to Wales, writes Luke James.

Gilberto Torres was held in insect-infested pits, tortured and made to watch fellow captives being dismembered in a 42 day ordeal in 2002.

Now he is bringing a case for damages against British Petroleum, claiming it is linked to the paramilitaries who abducted him.

Tonight he will share his story with trade unionists and campaigners at Cardiff’s Temple of Peace during an evening of Colombian food, music and performances.

“I want to discuss what action British people can take to stop the damage that multinationals are causing to human rights and the environment around the globe,” he said before the meeting.

Over 12,000 people have been murdered or disappeared since BP started oil exploration in the 1990s.

And his solicitor Sue Willman said: “Gilberto Torres is risking his safety by suing oil companies in the UK and by coming here to seek the truth.”

BP denies the allegations and is contesting the case.