Lebanon Opens Investigation into Abduction of Former Syrian Militia Leader
Lebanese authorities have launched an investigation to shed light on the abduction of former Syrian militia leader Ali Kayali from the country and his transfer to Syria.
According to statements made by Lebanese judicial and security officials on Friday, the process of abducting former Syrian militia leader Ali Kayali—who is accused of committing crimes during the era of ousted President Bashar Assad—from Lebanon and transferring him to Syria is under investigation.
Launch of the Investigation
Lebanese authorities announced the launch of an official investigation regarding the abduction of former Syrian militia leader Ali Kayali in Lebanon and his transport to Syria. Judicial authorities reported that the public prosecutor's office is conducting a comprehensive review of the incident.
Intelligence and Telecommunication Review
Authorized bodies in Lebanon requested army and police intelligence units to analyze telecommunications data. This review aims to determine whether Kayali was taken to the Syrian Embassy outside Beirut or directly to Syria after being seized from his residence in the town of Mansouriyeh.
Syrian Intelligence Statement
The Syrian intelligence department stated on Thursday that Ali Kayali (Mihrac Ural) was captured and detained while attempting to flee across the border from Syria. Intelligence units hold Kayali responsible for the murders that led to the deaths of hundreds of people in the coastal town of Baniyas in 2013.
Past Events and Reactions
Born in Turkey, Ali Kayali was among Syria's most wanted figures. News of Kayali's capture sparked celebrations in parts of Syria due to his responsibility for sectarian killings committed during the early years of the conflict that began in March 2011 amid crackdowns on the opposition.