Fadi Saqr: Criminal who is still a member of Damascus Bar Association

While Syrians' memories are still bleeding from the horrific scenes of the Al-Tadamon neighborhood massacre, Fadi Ahmed, known as "Fadi Saqr," continues to operate publicly within Syrian territory, boasting of his status as a lawyer in the Damascus branch of the Bar Association. He remains untouched by any legal or union accountability, despite the atrocities he has committed, documented in video and audio.

Recently, cameras captured "Saqr" on the Syrian coast releasing a number of detainees from the area, in a blatant attempt to rehabilitate his image in the eyes of the local public. This sparked a wave of popular disapproval that quickly escalated into a public demonstration denouncing his continued presence outside the justice system.

In light of this scandalous scene, we direct the following question to lawyer Basil Saeed Mani', a lawyer in the Damascus branch and a political and human rights activist:

Is it true that Fadi Ahmed (Saqr) is still registered as a lawyer in the Damascus branch? If the answer is yes, why hasn't the Bar Association taken action to prosecute him, both legally and professionally, despite his proven involvement in leading the "National Defense" militia and in war crimes against civilians?

Lawyer Basil Maneh responded, confirming that Fadi Ahmed has held the title of "Professor" for more than a year and is officially registered with the Damascus branch of the Bar Association.

He explained that any aggrieved citizen can file an official complaint with the Bar Association branch, provided it is supported by legal evidence such as videos, photos, or documented testimonies. Complaints are considered seriously, and if it is proven that the lawyer has committed a criminal offense, he will be referred directly to the judiciary and subject to disciplinary accountability within the Bar Association.

Lawyer Maneh confirmed to Zaman al-Wasl that the Bar Association is obligated to take action in such cases, especially since the crimes committed during the Syrian catastrophe are classified as war crimes and crimes against humanity, which are not subject to a statute of limitations and are not covered by any amnesty.

He added, "The continued violation of the principles of transitional justice and the delay in holding perpetrators accountable are likely to erode citizens' confidence in institutions and push some to seek revenge and self-retribution, which threatens civil peace and leads to societal chaos that is difficult to contain."

Concluding his remarks, lawyer Basil Manea called on citizens to express their criticism and accountability through the Bar Association and to file official complaints against any lawyer implicated in crimes. This is one of the fundamental means of achieving justice, providing redress for victims, and building a more humane legal future for Syria.