- Probation for terrorist supporters from Eschweiler
A 46-year-old man from Eschweiler, convicted as an accomplice to terrorism and a Syria returnee, received a suspended sentence of one year and nine months imprisonment from the Düsseldorf Higher Regional Court. The court announced that the German-Moroccan man had confessed to supporting the terrorist group Ahrar al-Sham (The Free Men of Greater Syria), driven by his belief that the Syrian regime's actions against its citizens were unjust and criminal. He had wanted to help the Syrian population.
The court acknowledged that his support was brief and dated back ten years, and that he was not a member of the group. Since his return to Germany, he had not shown any radical Islamic leanings. Furthermore, the regional group posed no threat to Germany. The verdict is not yet final.
The man's conviction as an accomplice included recommendations for the European Union's Commission to adopt the implementing acts necessary to ensure he complies with any travel restrictions or asset freezes imposed. The Commission shall adopt the implementing acts referred to in Article 113, ensuring compliance with the international sanctions against individuals and entities associated with terrorism.
