Reports: Nearly 50 Killed After Syrian Forces Fire on Protesters

Middle East In Transition

VOA News  April 22, 2011

Photo: AP

Syrian anti-government protesters march during a demonstration following Friday prayers near Damascus, April 22, 2011

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Syrian human rights activists say at least 49 people have been killed after security forces opened fire on anti-government protesters who rallied across the country.

The toll would make Friday the deadliest single day of protests in Syria since the anti-government uprising began in March.

Listen to what VOA's Cecily Hilleary and Steve Bangley discovered after talking to Syrian eyewitnesses on the ground involved in the protests in several cities:

Witnesses and activists say dozens of people were killed after security forces used live ammunition and tear gas on protesters, who poured onto the streets after Friday prayers and called for President Bashar al-Assad's immediate departure.

The reports say the majority of deaths occurred in the southern Daraa region, a hotbed for recent demonstrations. News agencies say witnesses have also reported deaths in the area near the capital, Damascus, and in the central city of Homs.
Friday's rallies against President Assad's government came one day after the president signed a decree ending almost 50 years of emergency rule.  The decree was part of his effort to end anti-government unrest.

Witnesses say protesters at some rallies on Friday chanted "freedom" as they called for an end to Mr. Assad's rule.

There was no immediate confirmation of the deaths by Syrian authorities. State-run SANA  news said says police and security forces responded with tear gas and hoses on Friday after "scuffles" erupted between demonstrators and citizens.

A Facebook page calling for people to join the rallies called them the "Good Friday" protests - a reference to the holy day when Christians believe Christ was crucified and died in Jerusalem.  A website image shows Christian and Muslim images together with the words "one heart, one hand, one goal."

Amnesty International said Friday's demonstrations could be the largest yet in Syria.  The group says a government crackdown on protests has killed at least 228 people since last month.