URGENT ACTION

Mohammed Hasan al-Labwani was released on 6 September after
being referred to an investigating judge. His next hearing has been scheduled
for 18 September. 

Mohammed Hasan al-Labwani, who was arrested on 18 August in
al-Zabadani, near Damascus, has now been reunited with his family. He was
charged by an investigating judge with “weakening national sentiment” (Article
285 of the Syrian Penal Code), “broadcasting false and exaggerated news which
could affect the morale of the country” (Article 286) and a third charge
related to participation in riots (Article 335). He is awaiting his next
hearing, which is scheduled for 18 September 2011.

Amnesty International was informed that Mohammed Hasan
al-Labwani’s interrogation focused particularly on his contacts with people
believed to be pro-reform activists; a protest he had attended outside the
Ministry of Interior; his participation in the funeral of a person who died
during the uprisings; and allegations of insulting the armed forces during a
public gathering.

Amnesty International was informed that although he was held
in a very small room and only received bread with a little milk to eat, he
received medication that he requires and is well.

No further action is requested from the network. Many thanks
to all who sent appeals.  Amnesty
International will continue to monitor Mohammed Hasan al-Labwani’s case.

Name: Mohammed Hasan al-Labwani

Gender m/f: Male

This is the first update of UA:  266/11 Index: MDE 24/051/2011 Issue Date: 8
September 2011