Recent investigative reports have revealed that Bisher al-Yaziji, the former commander of the "National Defense Forces - Lions of the Valley" militia (Wadi al-Nasara), is residing in Quebec, Canada, years after leading bloody military and security operations in the western Homs countryside.
The Black File: Violations by the "Lions of the Valley"
Testimonies and collected documents indicate al-Yaziji's involvement, a native of the village of Marmarita, in a series of crimes classified as war crimes and crimes against humanity, most notably:
- The "Green Hotel" Massacre (2014): Al-Yaziji is the prime suspect in the disappearance of more than 120 civilians (including women and children) who vanished without a trace after being detained in the hotel near the Monastery of St. George, in coordination with intelligence agencies.
- The Siege and Bombardment of Krak des Chevaliers: He led systematic military operations against the neighborhoods of Krak des Chevaliers and used places of worship in the valley area as launching pads for artillery shells.
- Kidnapping and Assassination: He managed a network of "Shabiha" (pro-regime militia) who carried out kidnappings for ransom and targeted civilians in neighboring villages with sniper fire.
The Journey of Disguise: From Military Uniform to Quebec
With the fall of Assad, Yazigi fled through Lebanon and then Dubai, eventually reaching Canada. Recent photos circulating online show Yazigi in front of the historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel in Canada, attempting to integrate with a new identity or altered appearance, believing that geographical distance would grant him immunity from prosecution.
Legal Note: Canadian law, specifically the Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act (CAHW Act), stipulates that authorities are obligated to prosecute those involved in international violations, especially if it is proven that misleading information was provided during immigration or asylum applications.
A Call for Human Rights and Legal Action
Based on the above, activists and victims (foremost among them the author of this report) urgently appeal to:
- The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP): to open an immediate investigation into Yazigi's record and compare his current photographs with his military archive.
- Human rights organizations: to activate the principle of "universal jurisdiction" to ensure he does not escape punishment.
- Witnesses and victims: to unite and provide firsthand accounts before the Canadian judiciary to strengthen the case for criminal prosecution.
Khaled Al-Hosni
Zaman Al Wasl
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