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STOCKHOLM (AP) — A Syrian former rebel who fled to Sweden has been charged with war crimes for abusing a captured member of President Bashar Assad's forces.
Swedish prosecutors said Monday it's the first time they have filed such charges in connection with the Syrian conflict.
They said the 28-year-old man, who wasn't identified, joined the Free Syrian Army in 2012.
He allegedly kicked and beat the prisoner, whose hands and feet were tied, and struck him with pliers and a baton. He then posted a video of the abuse on Facebook. Prosecutors intend to use the clip as evidence.
Prosecutor Hanna Lemoine said the man, who received asylum in Sweden in 2013, claims he was acting under coercion.
Defense lawyer Magnus Stromberg confirmed his client denies criminal responsibility but declined further comment.
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