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Journalist detained and threatened by Internal Security Forces in Raqqa
Journalist Ammar al-Hamidi said he was questioned for several hours at the Internal Security Forces’ headquarters in Raqqa after being summoned via WhatsApp under the pretext of holding an “introductory meeting.” He said the questioning included searching his phone, reviewing his private messages, and demanding information about journalists and activists in the area.
In a statement to the Syrian Journalists Association, al-Hamidi said he went to the Internal Security Forces’ headquarters, located in the former governor’s palace, and was then referred to the Department of Organizations and Political Parties. He added that interrogators accused him of working for several parties, including the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkish intelligence, and of inciting against the Syrian state through his journalistic work.
According to his account, the questioning covered his work with *Zaman al-Wasl* newspaper and his connection to popular protests in Raqqa, particularly demonstrations by residents of the North of the Railway area. He said the interrogator asked him to identify activists who had taken part in or called for the protests. The interrogator also recorded the phone numbers of several of his journalist colleagues after reviewing his messages.
Al-Hamidi said the questioning ended with a threat to use what he described as “parallel media” against him, along with a demand that he provide regular information and reports about journalists and activists. He said he refused, holding the Raqqa Internal Security Forces’ leadership responsible for his safety and that of his family.
The Syrian Journalists Association called on the relevant authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the summons and interrogation and to ensure that al-Hamidi is not subjected to pressure or retaliation because of his journalistic work or his disclosure of the incident. The association also stressed that any action involving journalists must follow proper legal procedures and safeguards. It called for the allegations to be investigated, for anyone found responsible for misconduct to be held accountable, and for the safety of the journalist and his family to be guaranteed.
