Defend International has been informed by reliable sources of the case of Mr. Maarof Mullah Ahmed, a leading member of Yeketi Party in Syria. DI believes that he is a prisoner of conscience, detained solely for his peaceful political activities.

Defend International urges Moroccan authorities to ensure that investigations and exhumations at mass grave sites in Western Sahara are carried out in line with international guidelines.

In spite of increased repression against pro-democracy activists in Syria, a number of prisoners of conscience were released! Jihan Omar and 6 youth detained over peaceful demonstrations were freed following urgent actions launched by DI launched demanding their release!

Defend International urged the Yemeni government to drop all judicial proceedings against Mr. Abdul Karim Al-Khaiwani, a journalist and a writer. On 25 September 2008 the Yemeni authorities released him after receiving a Presidential pardon. DI extends sincere thanks to DI members, supporters and friends for sending letters or otherwise supporting the campaign.