A man convicted of killing his 18-year-old daughter in an ‘honour killing’ in the Netherlands has been given a 30-year prison sentence. However, the perpetrator, Khaled al Najjar, is currently at large in Syria and was sentenced in absentia for the murder of Ryan al Najjar. His two sons, Mohamed and Muhanad, were present in court and each received 20-year sentences for their involvement in their sister’s death.
The court revealed that Ryan was restrained and asphyxiated with 18 meters of duct tape before being drowned in a shallow pool in a national park near Amsterdam. Forensic evidence showed that Ryan’s father’s DNA was present on the duct tape and under her fingernails, indicating she was still alive when thrown into the water.
After the killing, Khaled fled to Syria where he remarried. In a letter to a newspaper, he confessed to the murder but exonerated his sons. Prosecutors dismissed his claims, alleging that both brothers were complicit in the crime.
During the trial, it was disclosed that Ryan was murdered for defying the strict Islamic principles of her upbringing. Prosecutors highlighted that her rejection of these values, particularly evidenced in a TikTok video, triggered her family’s extreme actions.
The court heard distressing details of Ryan’s final moments, emphasizing the fear and isolation she experienced. Reports indicated that Ryan had sought police protection multiple times due to threats and assaults from her father and brothers.
While Muhanad attended the sentencing, Mohamed opted to stay in custody. Muhanad expressed his intent to clear his name, with his lawyer planning to appeal, citing lack of direct evidence linking him to the crime.
Given the absence of an extradition treaty between Syria and the Netherlands, it is improbable that Khaled will serve his sentence, as he shows no inclination to return voluntarily.