A Syrian fact-checking media outlet has revealed that the man who identified himself as a prisoner in a CNN report last week was, in fact, an intelligence officer in the Syrian Air Force. Witnesses stated that he controlled the western entrance of the al-Bayada district in Homs.
In a report by CNN’s senior international correspondent, Clarissa Ward, the man, appearing in front of the camera, claimed to be a civilian and alleged he had spent three months in detention.
Identifying himself as Adel Harbal, he stated that he was arrested at home and interrogated by military intelligence officers over his phone calls. Eventually, he was transferred from the location via a Red Crescent ambulance.
Ward emotionally described the moment, saying, “This is the end of a dark chapter for him and all of Syria.” However, a Syrian fact-checking website reported no public record of the name “Adel Harbal.”
The man’s real identity was revealed as Salameh Mohammed Salameh, known as Abu Hamza, a first lieutenant in the Syrian Air Force Intelligence. He was reportedly detained after a dispute with a senior official over profits from confiscated properties.
Further investigations uncovered accusations against him, including participation in military operations against civilians and the unjustified arrest and killing of youth in Homs.
The report has sparked criticism toward Clarissa Ward and CNN, with detractors accusing them of sensationalism and presenting an inaccurate narrative.
In response, CNN has denied staging the report and stated they are conducting a deeper investigation into the man’s identity and the broader context of the story.
This incident raises questions about the reliability of media narratives in conflict zones. It underscores the need for thorough fact-checking to ensure accurate reporting, especially on sensitive issues with far-reaching implications.
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