Concerns Over Abuses in Syrian Detention Centers Arise Following Death of Arrested Man

The death of Mohammad Ghamira, a young man with hemophilia, has stirred memories of torture in Syria’s detention centers. Ghamira, a former White Helmets volunteer, died after allegedly being beaten by Syrian security forces. This incident has prompted Syrians to demand explanations and accountability.

Background of the Incident

Ghamira was arrested on allegations of theft, and later died from complications of cerebral and gastrointestinal hemorrhaging. His family, aware of his medical condition that prevents blood clotting, had warned authorities against physical harm.

Syria’s interior ministry has detained seven personnel for questioning and began an investigation into the incident. Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s government has emphasized the importance of accountability.

Ongoing Concerns About Abuse

The U.N. Independent International Commission of Inquiry reported torture in multiple Syrian detention facilities in the months following Assad’s ouster. Practices involved beatings, electric shocks, and sexual violence.

The organization Syrians for Truth and Justice notes these abuses remain common. They emphasize that while abuses are widespread, they lack evidence of centralized orders for such conduct, holding authorities responsible for addressing these violations.

Families for Freedom, representing detainees’ relatives, expressed concern about the recurrence of such abuses, impacting families affected during Assad’s rule. They stressed the necessity for these patterns to end, reflecting long-standing struggles of Syrian families.