A
summary execution is an
execution in which a person is accused of a crime and immediately
killed without benefit of a
full and fair trial. Executions as the result of
summary justice (such as a
drumhead court martial) are sometimes included, but the term generally refers to capture, accusation, and execution all conducted simultaneously or within a very short period of time, and without any trial at all. Under international law, refusal to accept lawful surrender in combat (
no quarter) is also categorized as a summary execution (as well as
murder). Summary executions have been practiced by
police,
military, and
paramilitary organizations and are frequently associated with
guerrilla warfare,
counter-insurgency,
terrorism, and any other situation which involves a breakdown of the normal procedures for handling accused prisoners, civilian or military.