The public prosecutors in the Netherlands have demanded a 30-year prison sentence for a man who was part of the pro-Assad regime paramilitary group over alleged torture of civilians in Syria, according to media reports on Wednesday.
Rafik A., 57, is accused of torturing people in Syria between 2013 and 2014, the Dutch broadcaster NOS reported.
He was part of the National Defence Forces (NDF), a pro-Assad regime paramilitary group that played a role in suppressing peaceful protests and imprisoned Syrian civilians.
Rafik A. fled to the Netherlands in 2021 and settled in Gelderland as an investigation was launched soon after his arrival when a human rights lawyer shared information with the police’s International Crimes Team.
The Netherlands Public Prosecution Service demanded a 30-year sentence for the suspects, as the indictments list 25 criminal offenses, including torture, ill-treatment, and sexual violence against Syrian civilians.
The service states that victims of Rafik A. were blindfolded, stripped naked, and often kicked, beaten, tied up, and subjected to electric shocks, according to the report.
The case involves nine victims, including two women who suffered abuse and humiliation. Sexual violence was also reportedly involved, as one woman was allegedly raped and sexually assaulted.
Not only have the victims given statements, but others have also been heard as witnesses. In addition, the evidence includes documents from Syria, originating from security services, confirming that the suspect was active as an interrogator for the NDF.
The court is expected to deliver its verdict on June 9.