The White Helmets, also known as the Syrian Civil Defense, have made a plea to Russia to exert pressure on former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to disclose the whereabouts of secret prisons in Syria. Assad sought refuge in Russia, a key ally, following the capture of the Syrian capital, Damascus, by rebel forces over the weekend.
Director of the White Helmets, Raed Al-Saleh, conveyed the organization's request to the United Nations through an international mediator, urging Russia to compel Bashar al-Assad to provide maps of secret prison locations and lists of detainees' names. This initiative aims to expedite the rescue efforts for those held captive.
Al-Saleh highlighted the heinous acts committed by the Assad regime against the Syrian populace, including killings, detentions, and torture, which have caused immeasurable suffering and anguish, particularly for mothers. He emphasized that seeking justice for the victims and holding the perpetrators accountable are crucial steps towards healing wounds and fostering peace-building endeavors.
Insights into Syrian Prisons
The detention facilities operated by the Assad regime have long been shrouded in secrecy, serving as ominous places where individuals deemed as opponents mysteriously vanished. Saydnaya prison emerged as one of the most notorious sites, earning the moniker 'the slaughterhouse' due to the reported hanging of up to 13,000 individuals between 2011 and 2015, as documented by Amnesty International.
Recent developments saw Syrian rebels liberating numerous detainees from Saydnaya during their rapid territorial gains over the weekend. Despite online speculations about the existence of hidden cells within the prison, investigations by the White Helmets did not uncover any evidence of secluded areas holding captives.
