Suleiman: Truth behind Customs Brawl Must be Uncovered to Preserve Freedom of Expression

President Michel Suleiman condemned on Wednesday the assault against a television crew by security officers at the Beirut Customs office, saying that the truth behind the incident should be revealed.

He demanded that the judiciary and concerned authorities follow up on the case to uncover the truth “in a manner that preserves freedom of expression and the people's civil rights.”

“The search for truth and exercising self defense are both subject to the same laws that maintain the state and serve to protect public interests and funds,” he remarked.

Suleiman held talks with caretaker Finance Minister Mohammed al-Safadi and caretaker Information Minister Walid al-Daouq on the details of Tuesday's incident.

He also met with acting General Prosecutor Samir Hammoud who informed him of the investigations.

Suleiman also discussed the clash with acting director of Customs General Directorate Shafiq Merhi.

On Tuesday, al-Jadeed television reporters were assaulted by security officers at the Beirut Customs office after one of the journalists used a megaphone to demand an interview with Merhi about alleged corruption.

Following a lawsuit filed by the television station, the Central Criminal Investigations Department questioned the crew under the supervision of Hammoud for several hours before releasing them.

A statement from the Customs said Tuesday that the journalist used degrading language, adding it was not the appropriate manner to request an interview.