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Mother Demands Extradition of Syrian Father After Dutch Court Rules Daughter's Murder an 'Honour' Killing

She says Khaled al Najjar remains in Syria despite a 30-year sentence imposed in absentia.

Overview

  • Ryan al Najjar, 18, was found gagged and bound in a pond at the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve about a month after her birthday.
  • Dutch judges concluded she was killed for rejecting her family's conservative rules, classifying the crime as an honour killing.
  • Her brothers, Muhanad, 25, and Muhamad, 24, were convicted of assisting in the murder and each received 20-year prison terms.
  • Forensic and digital evidence cited at trial included Khaled's DNA under Ryan's fingernails, algae on the brothers' shoes, and traffic camera and GPS data placing family members at the scene.
  • Ryan's mother alleges years of domestic abuse, says Khaled sent a threatening message from Ryan's phone, and notes he later emailed Dutch newspapers claiming sole responsibility without returning to face trial.