Action Group – Syria
Contents of the release: following a security campaign in Camp
2: Ongoing anticipation and anxiety among residents;
2.1 testimonies of violations during detention; demands to reveal the fate of the remaining detainees;
2.3 official action and a field visit by the district director;
2.4 confirmation of respect for the rights of detainees;
2.5 calls for accountability and holding those responsible to account.
*Released after a security campaign in the camp*
Syrian security forces released two young men, Ali Ibrahim Rashid and Qusay Fathi Rashid, from Khan al-Sheikh camp, days after their arrest during a security campaign in the camp last week.
*There is constant anticipation and anxiety among the residents.*
This release comes amid a state of anticipation among the camp’s residents, as a number of young men remain detained without any officnial explanations regarding the reasons for their arrest or the charges against them.
*Testimonies about abuses during detention*
According to a statement from a family member of other detainees to the Action Group, some of the detainees were subjected to ill-treatment during their detention, including beatings and electric shocks, in the context of their interrogation, although these allegations could not be independently verified.
*Demands to reveal the fate of the remaining detainees*
While the families expressed their relief at the release of the two young men, calls continue to reveal the fate of the remaining detainees, ensure their safety, and disclose their legal status transparently.
*Official move and field visit by the district director*
For his part, the director of the Qatana district, Hassan Al-Zein, visited the Khan Al-Sheikh camp and met with a number of dignitaries and residents, stressing that he would follow up on the issue of the detainees, especially in light of the violations presented by the residents, which they said occurred during the raids.
*Emphasis on respecting the rights of detainees*
The action group emphasizes the importance of all relevant authorities adhering to the laws governing arrest procedures and ensuring respect for the rights of all detainees, including enabling them to communicate with their families and obtain legal representation, as these are fundamental rights guaranteed.
*Calls for accountability and holding officials responsible*
The group also emphasizes the need for relevant authorities, including the Ministries of Justice and Interior, to fulfill their oversight and accountability roles, and to investigate any allegations of violations by members of the internal security forces, and to take the necessary measures in accordance with established legal frameworks.