Crackdown on demonstrators and civilians dead in Homs

Confirmed news have reported that the central city of Homs has witnessed several thousands of demonstrators taking part in antigovernment protests demanding more freedoms and rights. Demonstrators said they were attacked with bats, batons and cables by members of the security forces dressed as civilians. Sheikh Mahmoud Aldalaty; the Imam of one of the city’s main mosques was amongst the protestors and was also beaten, swore at and insulted.  Tens of demonstrators were detained after being surrounded and snatched.
In a significant development military forces have entered the city and occupied crucial areas in it, while a witness from Al-wa’er reported that a number of thugs on motorcycles were (arriving from West of the city) were attacking passersby and beating them with bats and batons whilst quickly driving pass them.

The SHRC condemns the crackdown, kidnapping and violent methods used against peaceful demonstrators in order to detain them and mistreat them. It also demands the authorities to fulfil its promises made yesterday about putting an end to arbitrary arrest and attacks on civilians.

Syrian Human Rights Committee (SHRC)
25/3/2011