Syria puts first Assad-era official on trial in Damascus

"Atef Najib is charged with overseeing a violent crackdown on protesters during the 2011 uprising, facing accusations of crimes against the Syrian people. This trial is significant as it represents Syria's first public trial of officials under Bashar al-Assad, occurring 15 years after the civil war began."

"The trial proceedings opened in Damascus, with Najib as the sole defendant present. Other high-ranking officials, including Bashar al-Assad and his brother, are charged in absentia for serious crimes such as killings, torture, extortion, and drug trafficking."

"Crowds gathered outside the court in celebration, as families of victims attended the session. A spokesman for Syria's Justice Ministry emphasized the importance of holding the trial in public to ensure transparency and judicial independence as part of the transitional justice process."

Atef Najib, former head of political security in Deraa, faces charges for overseeing a violent crackdown on protesters during the 2011 uprising. This marks Syria's first public trial of officials linked to the Assad regime, occurring 15 years after the civil war began. Najib is the only defendant present, while others, including Bashar al-Assad and his brother, are charged in absentia. The trial aims to promote transparency and judicial independence as part of the transitional justice process, with families of victims attending in support.

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