Prosecutor Daniel Bellemare Welcomes Confirmation of Indictment

Leidschendam, 1 July 2011 – The Prosecutor Daniel A. Bellemare welcomes the decision of the Pre-Trial Judge on 28 June 2011 to confirm the indictment that he filed regarding the assassination of former Prime Minister of Lebanon Rafiq Hariri on 14 February 2005. This attack resulted in the death of 21 other victims and the injury of at least 230 others.

 

The Pre-Trial Judge also granted the Prosecutor's request to issue arrest warrants against the persons named in the indictment and asked the Lebanese authorities to execute these warrants.

By order of the Pre-Trial Judge, the content of the confirmation decision and indictment are still confidential and will be made public only when so ordered by the Pre-Trial Judge.

 

The decision of the Pre-Trial Judge represents an important milestone as it is the first independent judicial review of the work of the Office of the Prosecutor. By confirming the indictment, the Pre-Trial Judge was satisfied that there was sufficient evidence to send the accused to trial. Accused persons are presumed innocent until their guilt is established beyond reasonable doubt before the Trial Chamber of the Tribunal.

 

The confirmation of the indictment is only a second step in the judicial process. The Office of the Prosecutor's investigations are still ongoing and work continues to be ready for trial. The Prosecutor can submit additional indictments to the Pre-Trial Judge at any stage.

 

The confirmed indictment is the result of strong teamwork and dedication in the Office of the Prosecutor and countless hours of investigative work. This result could not have been achieved without the support and assistance of the Lebanese authorities.  It reflects, above all, the continued commitment of the Lebanese people to put an end to impunity in Lebanon.

 

The Prosecutor thanks the Lebanese people and the families of the victims for their patience and hopes that this confirmation will renew their confidence in our resolve to uncover the truth. 

 

Bringing the accused to justice will require adherence to the rule of law, the continued cooperation of the Lebanese authorities, and support of the international community.