Investigation launched after former White Helmet dies in custody

Syria’s Latakia Internal Security Command has opened an investigation into the death of Mohammed Gamira, a former White Helmets rescue worker who died in hospital after being held at the Haffeh police station over a financial dispute.

Gamira was held for three days before his health deteriorated and he was transferred to Tishreen University Hospital. His family alleges that officers ignored warnings about his chronic haemophilia and subjected him to severe physical abuse, causing catastrophic internal bleeding.

What the investigation will examine

The Interior Ministry’s Security Command said the inquiry would examine the circumstances of Gamira’s detention and whether the procedures used at the police station complied with legal requirements. The Syrian Arab News Agency reported that investigators would also consider his health condition.

Interior Minister Anas Khattab offered condolences to Gamira’s family and said any violations or misconduct by ministry personnel would be dealt with firmly under the law. He said anyone found responsible would be punished after the investigation, regardless of their position.

How the case has unfolded

Public anger grew after photographs circulated on social media showing Gamira receiving intensive care at Tishreen University Hospital. Family members say he suffered a brain haemorrhage and internal abdominal bleeding. He died in hospital on Monday, according to reporting from Latakia.

Protests were called in Latakia province on Monday, and nationwide protests were planned for Tuesday. Gamira was a father of two and had previously belonged to the White Helmets civil defence group.

Why the death has triggered outrage

The allegations have particular significance in Syria, where years of torture and deaths in detention under former President Bashir al-Assad made police and security custody a deeply sensitive issue. Under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led the offensive that toppled al-Assad, establishing the rule of law remains a core challenge.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has said more than 200,000 people died in Syrian prisons under al-Assad, including through executions and torture. Rights groups have documented mass deaths at Sednaya prison outside Damascus and described the abuses there as crimes against humanity.