Front Line is deeply concerned following the arbitrary arrest of human rights defender Osma Edward Keryo in the city of Al Hasakah, on 27 February 2008. Osma Anwar Keryo is a member of the Committee for the Defence of Civil Liberties in Syria.

Further Information

Posted 06/03/2008 It is believed that the arrest of Osma Edward Keryo is related to his academic writings in which he has criticised the authorities' management of the Syrian economy, in particular with regard to shortages of utilities suffered by citizens. He has previously been requested to report to the state's security branch in Al Hasakah in relation to an article he wrote entitled: "No water, No gas, No gas oil, No electricity".

Front Line believes that Osma Edward Keryo has been arrested as a result of his legitimate human rights activities. Front Line is also concerned for Osma Edward Keryo's physical and psychological integrity while detained and fears that he may be subject to torture and ill-treatment.