Syria says death of detainee in Latakia was caused by brain hemorrhage

DAMASCUS, Syria — Syria's Interior Ministry has released the findings of an investigation into the death of a 29-year-old civil defense worker, Muhammad Gammire, while in custody in the northwestern city of Latakia. A forensic medical examination concluded that Gammire died from a brain hemorrhage linked to hemophilia, a blood-clotting disorder he carried, according to committee chair and Deputy Interior Minister Brigadier General Ahmed Latuf, who briefed reporters in Latakia. Latuf said the investigation found that Gammire's health condition at the time of detention was not properly documented. Skin cracks caused by long-term cortisone treatment were assessed as requiring medical intervention. The committee also identified an investigator, named as Ahmed Jawad, who struck Gammire on the neck with his hand. Latuf said Jawad has been referred to the Latakia public prosecutor's office over the incident. Two other officials, Captain Ahmed Shakir al-Masri and investigator Omar Yusuf, face an expanded disciplinary inquiry conducted by the Interior Ministry's disciplinary investigations unit, according to Latuf. Latakia chief prosecutor Osama Shennak said the case will be followed rigorously and that anyone found responsible will be held to account.