The public prosecutor has requested a 25-year prison sentence for Khaled al N., the father of 18-year-old Ryan, who was murdered in Joure. The prosecutor also seeks 20 years for Ryan’s brothers, Mohamed and Muhanad, for their complicity in the crime. The tragic discovery of Ryan’s body occurred on May 28 of last year in a marsh near Oostvaardersplassen.
Details of the Case Against Khaled and His Sons
The prosecution asserts that Khaled and his sons had a premeditated plan to murder Ryan. The alleged motive stems from a belief that her behavior was “too Western” for their family values. Currently, Mohamed and Muhanad are detained in the Netherlands, while Khaled has fled to Syria. Last year, Khaled confessed in a letter to a Dutch newspaper, stating that he killed his daughter.
Evidence and Conversations Indicating Guilt
The prosecution claims that both Khaled and his sons were present at the location where Ryan’s body was found, as evidenced by their activity trackers. Authorities believe Ryan was a victim of an “honor killing,” a form of femicide deemed unacceptable in the Netherlands.
- The brothers participated in conversations discussing ways to kill Ryan.
- Khaled instructed his sons on how to proceed with the murder.
- Mohamed suggested using a poisonous plant as the method of killing.
During a court session, it was revealed that Ryan was bound with six meters of tape, containing Khaled’s DNA. Ryan was found with her hands tied behind her back, her mouth and nose covered with tape, suggesting a struggle.
Reactions from the Brothers
Both Mohamed and Muhanad insist they were not involved in the murder, calling their father a “psychopath” and a “monster” during the proceedings. The prosecutor noted that the brothers had exercised their right to remain silent for six months, raising questions about their sincerity in claiming innocence.
On the day of the murder, Ryan was picked up by her brothers after visiting a friend. In messages exchanged that day, their father instructed them to force Ryan to comply and dispose of her body in a deep lake. The brothers claim they initially thought Khaled’s threats were just that—empty threats.
Psychological and Familial Dynamics
Evidence was presented in court showing that Ryan expressed feelings of fear towards her family. She sought protection from police, expressing that her father had abused and threatened her. One brother admitted that Ryan had disrespected the family’s honor by appearing in western clothing on social media.
The case will continue with further hearings, including statements from the defense attorneys for Khaled and his sons. A verdict is expected on January 5.
