Former Syrian Colonel Charged with Crimes Against Humanity

0:00On March 13th, a former Syrian colonel named Salem, Al Salem, faces landmark charges in the United Kingdom for crimes against humanity. The 58-year-old is accused of three murders, three counts of torture, and one related charge stemming from his role in suppressing protests. Near Damascus, over a decade ago. This marks the first time UK prosecutors have brought murder as a crime against humanity under the International Criminal Court Act of 2000. 1. Earlier this week, Al Salem appeared via video link at London's Old Bailey for a preliminary hearing. His defense indicated he will likely contest all the allegations. Officials set the earliest possible trial day for October 20, 27, about three years from now. The case stems from events in the Jobar suburb in April and July 2011, where Al Salem allegedly ordered shootings and took part himself as part of a regime crackdown on civilians. He's also accused of overseeing torture at an intelligence facility, including beatings and worse methods on detainees.

1:01At the time, Al Salem led a unit in Syria's Air Force Intelligence, known for its harsh tactics. Now battling motor neuron disease and mostly housebound, he was arrested in December 2021 after a four-year probe by UK. Counterterrorism police working with global partners. This prosecution highlights the UK's push to hold war crimes suspects accountable, no matter how long it takes, with the war crimes team noting the challenges but firm commitment to justice.