Background:

The case code number VTC39, a 24-year-old Lebanese man, was arrested in March 2025 and spent several months in detention, where he was subjected to torture. The experience left lasting physical and emotional trauma.

On 19 June 2025, as a result of the swift legal response by the centre’s team—through the head of legal program the lawyer, Mohamad Sablouh—the Cedar Centre for Legal Studies paid the required bail and deposited the official release documents in Roumieh Prison. This intervention led to VTC39’s release and marked a crucial turning point in his life: from unlawful detention and torture to safety and care.

Following his release, VTC39 began receiving comprehensive support through the centre, including psychosocial assistance and medical follow-up to help him cope with the effects of his detention and torture. His story stands as a powerful example of how timely legal action and survivor-centered rehabilitation can restore dignity, ensure justice, and pave the way toward recovery. VTC39’s case reminds us that freedom is only the beginning—and that healing is possible when care and justice work hand in hand.

The timeline of rehabilitation services provided:

• On 24 June 2025, he began receiving psychosocial support services. Following this, he engaged in regular follow-up psychosocial sessions aimed at supporting his emotional and mental well-being.
• On 1 July 2025, he attended a follow-up session to continue his therapeutic process.
• On 3 July 2025, he participated in a meaningful session focused on exploring the “meaning of life,” which helped deepen his self-reflection and coping strategies. He also had a consultation with a general practitioner to address any physical health concerns, ensuring a holistic approach to his rehabilitation.
• On 8 July 2025, VTC39 continued his psychosocial care by attending another follow-up session. This session included a free association activity to encourage open expression and emotional release.
• On 15 July 2025, he had a follow-up session.
• Between 18 July and 6 August 2025, he attended multiple follow-up sessions, including psychosocial support sessions on 18 July and 22 July, and a follow-up on 6 August to confirm his GP appointment and ensure continuity of medical care.

Cedar Centre for Legal Studies role in rehabilitation the victims of torture

The Cedar Centre for Legal Studies holds a vital position in supporting the rehabilitation of torture survivors in Lebanon. In addition to its legal advocacy efforts, the Centre offers a holistic, survivor-focused framework that responds to both the urgent and lasting impacts of torture. Its services encompass psychosocial support, medical services, physiotherapy, legal support, and ongoing follow-up to ensure sustained recovery.

By integrating prompt legal action with a structured rehabilitation program, the Cedar Centre ensures that survivors are not only liberated from unjust detention but also equipped with the support and resources needed to rebuild their lives. Cedar’s approach recognizes that restoring dignity is central to recovery: it empowers survivors to regain autonomy, heal emotionally and physically, and reintegrate into society with confidence.

The centre’s work demonstrates that justice and care are inseparable, the legal protection provides freedom, while rehabilitation restores humanity, fostering resilience and hope in individuals who have endured extreme trauma. VTC39’s journey exemplifies how the Cedar Centre’s holistic interventions can transform the lives of torture survivors, offering a pathway from suffering to safety, healing, and renewed dignity.

Summary:

Through ongoing psychosocial support, medical care, physiotherapy, and legal assistance, VTC39 has shown consistent progress in his recovery. His sessions reflect active emotional processing, strengthened resilience, and careful attention to his physical health, showing a comprehensive approach to his rehabilitation.