An informed source has informed SHRC that Mr. Mohammed Abdul Hai Shalbi (64 years), from Tal Maneen in Rural Damascus province was arrested on 10 December 2006 after arriving to Damascus International Airport. He had come from Saudi Arabia, where he has been living for a long period of time.
The source informed SHRC that Mr. Shalbi was arrested despite the fact that his return had been consented with the Syrian Security in concern (Palestine Branch for Military interrogation), and that he suffers from muscle pains. Mr. Shalbi has not been to Syria in 42 years.
SHRC requests the Syrian Authorities to immediately release Mr. Mohammed Abdul Hai Shalbi, and all political prisoners or prisoners of conscience in Syrian Prisons. SHRC also calls upon the Syrian Authorities to put an end to arresting those returning to their country and allow all exiles a peaceful return.

Syrian Human Rights Committee
17/1/2007