The first open trial of former officials from the Assad era has begun in Syria. Former security chief Atef Najib is behind bars in the courtroom, accused of involvement in the 2011 crackdown in Daraa, reports Todayinfo news agency.
The trial is taking place in Damascus. This is the first major court case since the fall of the Assad regime. Atef Najib is accused of leading security forces during the suppression of protests in Daraa in 2011.
“This trial is an important step towards restoring justice in Syria,” said a lawyer involved in the proceedings.
International observers and journalists are attending the trial. The process may last several weeks.




