First images released: AFAD begins search and rescue operations at Sednaya Prison

AFAD has begun search, scanning, and rescue operations for individuals believed to be trapped at Sednaya Prison in Syria, a facility synonymous with the Bashar al-Assad regime and known for its use of torture.

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First images released: AFAD begins search and rescue operations at Sednaya Prison

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AFAD traveled to Damascus with a 120-person team for individuals believed to be trapped in Sednaya Prison in Syria.

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The AFAD team began operations with through-wall imaging devices, ground-penetrating radar, four canine search teams, and seismic acoustic listening devices.

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The teams departed from Hatay and arrived in Damascus after a journey lasting approximately 5-6 hours.

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43 VEHICLES AND 120 PERSONNEL

AFAD President Okay Memiş and the Interim Chargé d'Affaires of the Damascus Embassy, Burhan Köroğlu, made statements to members of the press in front of Sednaya Prison in the capital, Damascus.

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Memiş stated that they would conduct operations at Sednaya Prison with 43 vehicles and 120 personnel.

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Memiş reported that mobile phones are barely functional and that they are maintaining communication with Ankara via satellite phones.

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Köroğlu, recalling that major crimes were committed at Sednaya Prison and that some remain unidentified, emphasized the importance of the research AFAD will conduct with its own equipment.

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PRISON SURROUNDINGS WILL ALSO BE SEARCHED

Stating that comprehensive research will be conducted not only inside the prison but also in the surrounding area, Köroğlu reminded that Turkey has been working for a long time on how those who committed these war crimes will be punished.

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CONTACTS WITH THE SYRIAN INTERIM ADMINISTRATION

Expressing that they, as the Embassy, will contribute to the development of Syria and Turkey-Syria relations, Köroğlu stated that they will meet tomorrow with both the Prime Minister of the interim administration, Mohammed al-Bashir, and the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Ahmed al-Shara (Abu Mohammad al-Julani).

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Köroğlu stated that the greatest need in Syria is stability and the cessation of attacks, adding, "There is no need for any power to intervene here. In this framework, we have begun working with the existing, legitimate interim government."