Syria arrests former Republican Guard officer over violations
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Syria’s Interior Ministry announced on Tuesday the arrest of Yusuf Habib, a former brigadier general in the Republican Guard during the former Syrian government, over allegations of involvement in violations and crimes committed against civilians.
In a statement, the ministry said preliminary investigations showed that Habib previously held the rank of lieutenant colonel in the 106th Brigade of the Republican Guard, where he was responsible for conducting inspections and arresting activists at military checkpoints.
According to the ministry, detainees arrested under his supervision were later handed over to Major General Mohammad Khaddour and members of his unit, who allegedly carried out executions of detainees inside the brigade’s headquarters.
The ministry added that investigations revealed Habib later advanced through several military positions before assuming command of the Republican Guard in Syria’s eastern region in early 2023.
It stated that his arrest is part of ongoing efforts to pursue individuals suspected of involvement in crimes and violations committed against Syrians and to refer them to the competent judiciary for legal proceedings.
The Interior Ministry did not provide further details regarding the circumstances of the arrest or the timeline for judicial action.