Bashar Mahfoud, a former commander of the Assad regime’s 25th Division, was arrested in Damascus for war crimes, robberies, and kidnappings. His division is linked to brutal human rights violations during the civil war. The arrest marks progress in combating organized crime and is seen as a hopeful step towards accountability for war crimes. Activists call for a fair trial and an international investigation into related atrocities.
Syrian security forces have apprehended Bashar Mahfoud, a former commander within the Assad regime’s 25th Division, in Damascus. Mahfoud is accused of war crimes, robberies, and kidnappings, marking a significant step in ongoing efforts to diminish organized crime and restore order in the capital. The 25th Division, previously noted for its military actions during the Syrian civil war, has transformed into a gang after the regime’s fall, allegedly engaging in criminal activities involving kidnapping and robbery.
The 25th Division, under Mahfoud’s command, gained infamy for numerous human rights violations during the Syrian civil war. This division engaged in serious abuses, including arbitrary detentions, torture, and indiscriminate killings, particularly targeting protest areas. Mahfoud also oversaw the recruitment and training of fighters for rapid assault operations.
Extensive war crimes are attributed to the 25th Division across regions such as the Damascus countryside, Homs, and Hama, where documented acts of execution and destruction of property occurred. Mahfoud reportedly played a direct role in these human rights violations, being responsible for calls to use heavy weaponry in civilian residential areas, leading to significant civilian casualties, including women and children.
Human rights organizations have linked Mahfoud to detainee torture within the division’s detention centers, with documented fatalities resulting from such abuse. Following the collapse of the regime and the fragmentation of military units, Mahfoud allegedly developed a criminal enterprise focusing on kidnappings and robberies. He exploited his military connections and knowledge to target affluent individuals in Damascus.
His capture followed a meticulous intelligence operation by the Damascus Security Directorate, which tracked his movements and illicit activities for months. The successful raid not only led to his arrest but also the confiscation of arms and equipment. Officials disclosed that Mahfoud admitted his involvement in kidnappings and robberies during preliminary investigations, which subsequently led to the arrest of additional gang members, dismantling the organization.
Local residents have welcomed Mahfoud’s arrest, expressing hope for accountability concerning individuals involved in war crimes and recent atrocities. Activists are advocating for a fair judicial process for Mahfoud and an international probe into the war crimes perpetrated by the 25th Division and its leaders. They stress the need for transparency and justice for victims of these crimes.
In summary, the arrest of Bashar Mahfoud represents a pivotal moment in Syria’s ongoing struggle against organized crime and the need for accountability for war crimes. Mahfoud’s significant role in severe human rights abuses during the civil war has garnered attention, highlighting the necessity for judicial processes and international investigations into the actions of the 25th Division. The local community’s response indicates a desire for justice and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
