Syrian ex-police chief Mussab Abou R. reportedly fled Austria after torture conviction

The Vienna Regional Court convicted two former Syrian regime officials—Khaled Al H. and former Raqqa criminal‑police chief Mussab Abou R.—of state‑organized, systematic torture of 21 civilians. Both were sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment for the crimes committed in Raqqa.

Khaled Al H. has remained in custody at the Vienna‑Josefstadt detention centre since December 2024. In contrast, Mussab Abou R. was released pending appeal, and the Higher Regional Court (OLG Wien) later found no flight risk. Since late July, a Facebook post by family members suggests he has left Austria and returned to Syria.

Human‑rights organization CEHRI assisted victims, helped bring witnesses to Vienna, and welcomed the verdict after years of waiting for justice.