Sednaya Prison Detainees Association Calls for Accountability
Diab Serriya, the Director of the Association of Detainees and Missing Persons in Sednaya Prison, has called for judicial prosecution of those responsible for the crimes committed within the notorious facility. In a recent interview, Serriya confirmed that approximately 2,000 detainees were freed following the fall of the city to armed opposition factions, with the last release occurring on December 8. He emphasized the need for accountability, stating that the names of the officers and personnel involved in the prison's operations must be handed over to a legal body for prosecution.
Denial of Rumors Regarding Secret Detainees
Serriya strongly refuted claims circulating on social media about the existence of secret floors or rooms within Sednaya Prison that allegedly house thousands of detainees. He stated that the association has thoroughly documented the situation and confirmed that no hidden areas exist. The only basement accessed during the liberation efforts was under Block A, where hundreds of detainees were freed. Serriya also dismissed allegations that a press found inside the prison was used for torture, clarifying that it was merely a tool for maintenance operations.
Lack of Central Authority for Detainee Information
Despite the release of many detainees, families of the missing continue to struggle with a lack of information. Serriya noted that there is no central authority to provide accurate details about detainees or missing persons from Syrian prisons. Families are left searching for their loved ones without a clear path to obtain information. He highlighted the chaotic nature of the release operations, which were not organized, leading to confusion and the scattering of important documents. Serriya concluded by expressing support for legal actions against those involved in the crimes at Sednaya, including calls for the prosecution of Bashar al-Assad at the International Criminal Court.
