State Prosecutor Defends Judiciary in Recent Scandals
State Prosecutor Samir Hammoud has denied claims that the judiciary was covering up for suspects involved in the latest corruption scandals that have rocked the country.
“We will not overlook anyone involved (in the cases). Yet we will make sure that our rulings are based on evidence because we don't want to do injustice to anyone,” Hammoud told As Safir daily published on Thursday.
The judge denied that he has come under pressure by influential people and stressed “I will not be influenced (by such measures) if they do take place.”
“We are determined to complete our investigations and pursue any suspect,” he said.
Asked about the slow pace of the probes, Hammoud said: “Some of the issues, such as the illegal internet network, require sensitive technical investigation.”
“Some of the suspects are also denying the charges against them, which requires more follow up to unveil the truth,” he said.
Over fears that the judiciary would be pressured by some political parties to cover up the crimes, the judge told As Safir that the judicial branch will not conceal information no matter how sensitive the file is and no matter who is involved in the case.
“The judiciary will perform its role in an effective manner and will not be subject to potential pressure,” he said.
Among the scandals rocking the country are embezzlement in the Internal Security Forces, a ring abusing women, mainly Syrians, as sex slaves, and illegal internet networks.
Progressive Socialist Party chief MP Walid Jumblat and members of his party have been criticizing the judiciary for its slow investigations into the cases, hinting that it is covering up for influential people.
G.K.
D.A.
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