Syrian activist Hassan Akkad detained in Damascus
Summary
Syrian activist Hassan Akkad was detained by security forces in Damascus after criticizing a journalist online. He was arrested at a cafe and remains in custody, though the main legal case against him was reportedly dropped.Key Facts
- Hassan Akkad is a British Syrian activist and founder of a campaign tracking funds for Syria’s reconstruction.
- He was detained on Wednesday night in Damascus after criticizing journalist Mousa al-Omar on social media.
- Al-Omar filed a legal complaint against Akkad under Syria’s cybersecurity law but later withdrew it.
- Akkad was summoned by Syria’s cybersecurity branch on June 4 and arrested without clear legal procedures at the time.
- His arrest raises concerns about freedom of expression under laws from the previous Syrian government.
- Akkad is a former English teacher and refugee who won awards for documenting his journey fleeing the Syrian civil war.
- Witnesses said plainclothes officers entered the cafe, requested Akkad’s phone, then arrested him.
- Syrian authorities have not responded publicly to requests for comment on his detention.
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