Archbishop of Ferzol, Zahle and the Bekaa for the Melkite Greek Catholics, Bishop Ibrahim Mikhael Ibrahim, called on the relevant authorities, "amid growing public and humanitarian concern, to reveal the fate of Zahle native Patrick Bakarian, whose whereabouts have remained unknown for more than ten days."
In a statement, he stressed that "Bakarian’s case must not be consigned to oblivion," emphasizing that "human dignity and the right to safety must stand above any other consideration," and noting that "the young man’s family is living in a state of anxiety and anticipation, awaiting any news that might reassure them about their son’s fate."
Ibrahim urged "the security and judicial authorities, especially the leadership of the Lebanese Army, given that Bakarian is a member of the Republican Guard, to intensify their efforts and expedite investigations to uncover the truth." He also appealed to "anyone with information about the incident to come forward immediately to help bring the truth to light."
He pointed out that "this case is not merely an individual one, but concerns society as a whole, and highlights the need to strengthen security and stability, and to protect citizens from any threat that may affect their lives or freedom."
Ibrahim underscored "the need to stand by the Bakarian family in this ordeal," considering that "human solidarity is the most important means of pressing to reach the truth and end the state of ambiguity surrounding the case."
