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Dutch prosecutors seek 30-year sentence for alleged Syrian torturer
Prosecutors say the 57-year-old was the NDF’s chief interrogator and abused nine victims, with a verdict expected in June.
- Prosecutors in the Netherlands are seeking a 30-year sentence for Rafik A., accused of crimes during the Syrian conflict.
- He faces 25 charges, including torture, rape, and other crimes against humanity allegedly committed while linked to forces backing Bashar al-Assad.
- The case is a legal first in the Netherlands, addressing pro-government crimes in Syria and charging sexual violence as a crime against humanity.
15 Articles
15 Articles
The suspect is 57-year-old Rafik A. As an interrogator, he is alleged to have committed torture, torment, and sexual violence against Syrian civilians.
"Not only did he break my body, but he trampled on my soul, it was the worst nightmare of my life," said one of the victims who "went to prison as a child and came out a wounded adult."
The Public Prosecution Service considers it proven that the Syrian Rafiq al-Q. tortured prisoners and used sexual violence against them. The prosecutors call it a "special case, because far from all victims of the crimes committed in Syria are given the opportunity for their tormentor to ever stand trial."
Historic Trial: Justice Sought for Syrian Atrocity Crimes in Netherlands
Dutch prosecutors demand a 30-year sentence for Rafik A., a Syrian man facing charges of torture and rape as crimes against humanity. It's the first case in the Netherlands against Syrian militia members supporting Assad. Witnesses testified about the brutal torture and psychological trauma they endured.
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