Anwar was arrested on September 20, 1998 under the Internal Security Act, 1960, a laid that Human Rights Groups consider to be a gross violation of basic human rights. This law permits lengthy detention without charge or trial. Subsequently a number of Anwar's friends and allies were detained under the same law. Some have since been released on condition that they would disavow any statement to the public of any harsh treatment whilst under detention. The first stage of ISA detention provides for up to 60 days of in communicado detention in solitary confinement. Previous testimonies of detainees confirm use of mental and physical torture and round the clock interrogation to break down the detainee to a compliant state. Then detention can be continued for two years at a time and renewed indefinitely. Anwar has since been released from ISA detention on 14 October 1998 but has been denied bail.