Lebanese Businessman Arrested Following Extended Interrogation in Drone Equipment Case

Military investigating judge Ghada Bou Alwan has ordered the pre-trial detention of Rabih Al-Tawil following an extended interrogation session. The Lebanese national faces charges of violating Article 72 of the Arms Law related to a misdemeanor offense, with the case stemming from a French Interpol request concerning an alleged network in France engaged in exporting equipment utilized in drone production.

The interrogation, which included representation by lawyer Ahmed Jaber acting on Al-Tawil's behalf, concluded with a defense motion for his release. Under Article 113 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses may be released within five days of arrest, a provision the defense sought to invoke.

During questioning, Al-Tawil maintained his innocence regarding the allegations contained in the French judicial request. He reiterated earlier statements claiming he had been importing "toys" on behalf of an acquaintance identified as "Abu Hadi" or "Abu Al-Rida." According to Al-Tawil's account, he had previously arranged three separate shipments for this individual, who operated a retail establishment.

Judge Bou Alwan has ordered the summons of Rabih Nour El-Din, who faces similar charges in connection with the investigation. Intelligence gathered suggests that El-Din is currently detained in France alongside a German national, subject to a French delegation.

French authorities have submitted an extradition request seeking Al-Tawil's transfer to face trial in France. However, Lebanese law explicitly prohibits the extradition of Lebanese citizens to foreign countries, creating a legal impediment to the French demand.