An independent committee to investigate the circumstances that led to the escalation of violence in the coastal provinces of Syria has started working in Damascus and intends to punish all those responsible for the massacres of civilians. This was stated by its official representative Yasser Farhan, as reported by Syria TV.

According to him, the authorities prefer to independently investigate cases of attacks on innocent civilians in Latakia, Tartus and Baniyas. "We are open to cooperation with international bodies, but we prefer to use national capabilities," he emphasized. At the same time, Farhan emphasized "the independence and impartiality of the investigators included in the committee."

"We are working to collect evidence and identify those involved in the crimes," he said. "We are preparing lists of witnesses and identifying the places where the massacres were committed. Forensic experts have been brought in to support the investigation." According to him, any witness who wants to testify will be guaranteed protection.

The committee expects to complete its investigation within 30 days, the spokesman said. "Not a single one of those found guilty will escape punishment," he stressed. "The results of the investigation will be presented to the president and the judges."