Syrian Interior Ministry Announces Arrest of Former Assad Regime Commander
By Kardo Roj
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Syria’s Interior Ministry announced on Thursday the arrest of a former commander of the “Tiger Forces,” a notorious pro-Assad military unit, as part of an ongoing crackdown on criminal networks operating in the post-war period.
In a statement, the ministry confirmed the detention of Bashar Mahfouz, who previously led assault units and oversaw recruitment for the 25th Division, which was commanded by Suheil al-Hassan, known as “The Tiger.”
According to the Interior Ministry, Mahfouz is accused of committing war crimes and forming a gang involved in kidnapping and looting following the collapse of the previous government structure. He is set to face trial before a specialized court.
The arrest marks a significant move by Syrian authorities, reflecting an effort to address lawlessness that has persisted in various regions since the end of major military operations.
In a related security development, an intelligence source told local media that Syrian security forces had intercepted an illicit weapons deal in eastern Daraa countryside. Two individuals, identified as Raoui Kiwan and Moataz Ghanem, were apprehended while receiving a shipment of anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles from a supplier known as “Abu Zaater.”
Daraa, which has remained a hotspot for insurgent activity and arms smuggling, has witnessed frequent clashes between security forces and armed groups, complicating stabilization efforts in the south.
The crackdown on former military figures and illicit arms trade signals a broader attempt by the Syrian government to consolidate control and address lawlessness that has plagued parts of the country. However, security analysts suggest that such efforts face challenges due to lingering tensions and the presence of multiple factions operating within Syria’s fragmented landscape.
While these developments may indicate a shift in security policy, the long-term effectiveness of such measures remains uncertain amid the country’s complex political and military dynamics.