Search For Secret Cells In Saydnaya Prison Concludes

A woman examines the cells at the infamous Saydnaya military prison, just north of Damascus, Syria, on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024. Crowds are gathering to enter the prison, known as the "human slaughterhous

The search for possible prisoners in secret cells in Syria’s notorious Saydnaya prison has concluded, with the Syrian Civil Defense, also known as the White Helmets, confirming that there is no evidence of undiscovered secret cells or basements. Speculation had arisen about additional detainees being held in deeper levels of the prison, which has been labeled the “human slaughterhouse” by Amnesty International.

The White Helmets deployed specialized teams to thoroughly search all sections, facilities, basements, courtyards, and surrounding areas of the prison. Despite the assistance of individuals familiar with the prison's layout, no hidden areas were found. The group expressed solidarity with the families of missing individuals and urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation and rumors about prisons and detainees.

No evidence of additional detainees in deeper levels of the prison.

Syrian Civil Defense, White Helmets, found no hidden cells in Saydnaya prison.

Specialized teams searched all sections, facilities, and surrounding areas of the prison.

Over the weekend, rebel forces released prisoners from Saydnaya, prompting Syrians to turn to social media for updates on missing or detained loved ones. Some families even gathered outside the prison in hopes of receiving news about their relatives.