Syrian State TV
December 22, 2012, in Damascus, Syria

Syrian State TV reported that one of its cameramen, Alsamoudi, 45, was shot dead by rebel fighters in the Kafrsousa neighborhood of Damascus. Alsamoudi, who was on his way to work when he was killed, had often covered news on the conflict for Syrian State TV, the report said.

The TV outlet and the state news agency SANA reported that the rebels knew Alsamoudi's schedule and had waited for him outside his home. The pro-government outlets said Alsamoudi was targeted because he was reporting on how videos produced by rebel soldiers showing violations against civilians were allegedly faked. CPJ continues to investigate the case and seek independent corroboration of the circumstances surrounding his death.

SANA said that Alsamoudi was killed by "armed terrorist groups," a catch-all phrase the government has used to describe all armed opposition forces.

No group claimed responsibility for the killing. It is unclear if Alsamoudi had been threatened before his death.

Motive Unconfirmed: CPJ is investigating to determine whether the death was work-related.

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