28 Apr 2011 | Index Index, Middle East and North Africa, minipost
The Syrian regime has launched a massive crackdown against protestors demanding political reform in the country. The killing of protestors in 14 separate towns on April 22 heralded a dramatic escalation in violence. In an attempt to pre-empt further protests, the government ordered (25 April) tanks to move in to the city of Deera, which has been at the centre of unrest in the last few weeks. Human rights groups have estimated that 400 people have been killed by security forces since protests began five weeks ago.
18 Apr 2011 | Index Index, Middle East and North Africa, minipost
Syrian security forces killed three people on Sunday (17 April) when they opened fire on mourners attending the funeral of another slain protester. The funeral procession had turned into a protest against the government. The incident took place outside the town of Talbiseh, north of the central city of Homs.
16 Apr 2011 | Index Index, Middle East and North Africa, minipost
The Syrian authorities have arrested an Algerian freelance journalist working for a French radio station. Khaled Sid Mohnad was picked up on 9 April and is thought to be in a Damascus prison. His arrest follows that of Syrian writer and former political prisoner Fayez Sara, who was arrested on 11 April after attending an opposition meeting. In total 11 journalists have been arrested.
4 Apr 2011 | Index Index, Middle East and North Africa, minipost, News and features
Syrian authorities have released Reuters photographer Khaled al-Hariri. The Syrian national had been held for six days. He was arrested as he reached his Damascus workplace last Monday. Three other Reuters journalists have also been detained this week, but they have been released and forced to leave the country.
