Port Probe Suspended as Bitar Issues Arrest Warrant for Khalil

Lead investigator in port blast case, Judge Tarek Bitar, issued Tuesday an in-absentia arrest warrant against ex-minister and MP Ali Hassan Khalil after the latter failed to appear this morning as a defendant before the Judge for interrogation.

Bitar reportedly accused Khalil of committing the crimes of murder, vandalism and arson, coupled with possible intent and professional negligence.

Bitar's probe into the case was suspended in the wake of the session, after the judge was notified of a second recusal lawsuit filed against him by Khalil and ex-minister Ghazi Zoaiter. This is the second time that Bitar's investigation gets suspended due to challenges filed by politicians.

Judge Janet Hanna of the Civilian Court of Cassation had on Monday rejected a request from Khalil and Zoaiter -- also accused of negligence -- to dismiss Bitar.

Head of the Supreme Judicial Council, Judge Suheil Abboud, later referred a second dismissal request to the First Chamber of the Court of Cassation headed by Judge Naji Eid.

Media reports said that Khalil’s defense attorney is also intending to file a lawsuit against the state before the judiciary, which will not reverse the effects of the arrest warrant in absentia.