Following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria over the weekend, shocking videos have emerged from the notorious Sednaya prison, a facility infamous for detaining political prisoners under brutal torture and inhuman conditions. Located about 30 kilometers from Damascus, Sednaya was often referred to as "the red prison" or "the human slaughterhouse" due to the high number of executions carried out there on a weekly basis.
Rami Abderrahman, the director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, disclosed to EFE that rescue operations unveiled "between 40 and 50 bodies," most of which were victims of recent executions. The Syrian Civil Defense, popularly known as the White Helmets, dispatched several teams to conduct a meticulous search for prisoners within the hidden underground cells spread over an intricate 1.4-kilometer layout.
"We are now in the heart of Damascus. I swear by God, our execution, along with 54 others, was scheduled for today just half an hour ago," recounted one of the freed prisoners to the BBC.
Managed by the Syrian Military Police, Sednaya housed not only civilians but also jihadists and rebels opposing the government. Since its construction in 1987, it is believed that up to 30,000 people have perished there, either executed or as a result of torture, lack of medical care, or starvation.
Reports from human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International, indicate that thousands were killed in mass executions, often without any trial. These executions were carried out by hanging. Prisoners endured constant physical and psychological torture, including beatings, electric shocks, and other cruel punishment methods. They lived in extremely overcrowded conditions with limited access to food, water, and healthcare.
The prison operated under a shroud of secrecy. Detainees were often arrested arbitrarily, and their families were kept in the dark about their whereabouts. Organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have condemned the atrocities committed within Sednaya, labeling it as one of the world's worst prisons in terms of human rights violations. Survivor testimonies reveal a pattern of systematic torture, forced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sednaya Prison and Bashar al-Assad's Regime
What is Sednaya prison known for?
Sednaya prison is notorious for housing political prisoners who were subjected to severe torture and inhumane living conditions. It is infamous for its high number of executions and has been labeled as one of the worst facilities in the world for human rights violations.
How many people have reportedly died in Sednaya prison?
It is estimated that up to 30,000 people have died in Sednaya prison due to executions, torture, lack of medical care, and starvation since its establishment in 1987.
Who managed Sednaya prison?
Sednaya prison was operated by the Syrian Military Police and detained a mix of civilians, jihadists, and anti-government rebels.