Breaking Headline

Eight Syrians arrested in Jordan over violent camp riot

Published April 21st, 2013 - 01:05 GMT
Jordan says it is currently hosting more than 500,000 Syrian refugees and the United Nations High Commissioner expects the number to soar to 1.2 million by the end of 2013.
Jordan says it is currently hosting more than 500,000 Syrian refugees and the United Nations High Commissioner expects the number to soar to 1.2 million by the end of 2013.

Jordanian officials say eight Syrian refugees were arrested on Sunday on suspicion of inciting violence at the country's northern Zaatari refugee camp, according to reports. 

On Friday evening around 100 of Zaatari's residents threw stones at police who would not allow them to leave the camp, which is home to more than 160,000 Syrians.

The violence that has reportedly left ten police officers injured - two of them in a critical condition - was condemned by parliament on Sunday. 

A security official told AFP news agency: "The security services have arrested eight Syrians over the rioting that took place on Friday. They will be referred to the (military) state security court soon." 

The eight accused are each reported to face up to three years in prison if the court convicts them of rioting. 

On Sunday, Jordan's government sent a letter to the UN Security Council reiterating its belief that the war in Syria is a threat to its own security. 

"Jordan's UN Ambassador Prince Zeid bin Raad will deliver the letter, explaining the serious implications of hosting the Syrian refugees," state-run Petra news agency quoted a statement by the council of ministers on Sunday.

Jordan says it is currently hosting more than 500,000 Syrian refugees and the United Nations High Commissioner expects the number to soar to 1.2 million by the end of 2013.

Subscribe

Sign up to our newsletter for exclusive updates and enhanced content