Syria probes death of former White Helmet in custody as protests spread
Public outrage in Latakia province escalates into nationwide demonstrations as authorities investigate the death of Mohammed Gamira, reigniting fears of detention abuses under the new administration.
Syrian authorities have initiated a formal investigation into the death of Mohammed Gamira, a former White Helmet rescue worker, who died in hospital after being held at the Haffeh police station in Latakia province. The inquiry, announced by the Ministry of Interior’s Security Command, will examine the circumstances of Gamira’s detention and assess whether procedures complied with legal requirements.
Gamira, a father of two, died last night after being transferred to Tishreen University Hospital. His family alleges that security officers ignored warnings regarding his chronic haemophilia and subjected him to severe physical abuse during a 72-hour detention period. The family claims this treatment triggered catastrophic internal bleeding and a brain haemorrhage, leading to his death.
The incident has triggered immediate public outrage in Latakia, with protests called for on Monday. Organisers have now planned nationwide demonstrations for Tuesday, reflecting deep-seated anxieties about the treatment of detainees under the current government. Photos shared on social media showed Gamira receiving intensive care prior to his death, fueling the public response.
Interior Minister Anas Khattab expressed condolences to the family and stated on X that any misconduct by Interior Ministry personnel would be dealt with firmly. He pledged that anyone found responsible would receive due punishment regardless of their status, once investigations are completed. The Syrian Arab News Agency reported that the probe would also consider Gamira’s pre-existing health condition.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges for President Ahmed al-Sharaa in establishing the rule of law following the toppling of former President Bashir al-Assad. The prospect of mistreatment in detention remains highly sensitive for Syrians, given that more than 200,000 people died in Syrian prisons under the former regime, including through torture and executions at facilities such as Sednaya prison.
