Syrian Doctor Sentenced to Life in Germany for Crimes Against Humanity

In the Higher Court of Frankfurt am Main, Germany, Syrian doctor Alaa M. was sentenced to life imprisonment for crimes committed against humanity. According to the court’s decision, he killed two people and inflicted serious bodily harm on at least nine others in his home country Syria during 2011-2012. The court classified this case as a crime against humanity, and the convicted person will not be eligible for parole even after 15 years.

This trial was the first in Germany where the activities of a Syrian doctor were directly examined in the context of crimes against humanity. The court found that Alaa M. was a member of a so-called “elimination group” acting against opponents of the Syrian regime and committed his crimes at a military hospital and a military intelligence detention center in Homs. The victims were mainly opposition members, and the doctor treated them with extreme cruelty and sadism.

Presiding judge Christoph Koller emphasized that the doctor did not hide his inclination towards torture and “enjoyed inflicting physical and psychological pain on those he considered inferior.” During the proceedings, the testimonies of more than 50 witnesses were heard. The crimes described included beatings, burning various body parts, causing injuries, sexual abuse, and other acts.

A notable aspect of this case was that, during the trial, both the complex and dangerous situation in Syria and issues of international legal responsibility for crimes against humanity were widely discussed. Judge Koller noted that such crimes are not only the responsibility of the perpetrators but also a lesson for all society and for the protection of human rights and humanity principles.

This verdict in Germany is considered an important event in the system of international law and in the field of human rights. Alaa M., who was arrested for his activities in Syria, will now spend the rest of his life in prison.

In conclusion:
This verdict once again reminded the international community that crimes against humanity will not go unpunished and that it is impossible to escape responsibility, even after years and in another country. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!