Arrest Warrant against Syrian National over Terror Links

An arrest warrant was issued against Syrian national Mohammed Hammoud on charges of belonging to a terrorist group with the aim of carrying out terrorist acts.

The state-run National News agency reported on Friday that Military Tribunal Judge Imad al-Zein interrogated Hammoud and charged him with belonging to al-Qaida-affiliate al-Nusra Front and fighting against the Lebanese army in the northeastern border town of Arsal in August 2014.

He was also accused of preparing for a suicide attack against an army checkpoint in Arsal and the possession of arms and explosives.

If convicted, the suspect could face the death penalty.

The army continuously clashes with jihadists, whose threat rose in August last year when they overran Arsal and took with them hostages from the military and police following heavy gunbattles.

H.K.

M.T.