Syria Arrests Bashar Mahfoud: A Step Toward Justice for War Crimes

Bashar Mahfoud, former commander of the Syrian 25th Division, was arrested in Damascus for war crimes, kidnapping, and robbery. His arrest is part of efforts to combat organized crime. Mahfoud is associated with numerous human rights violations during the civil war and formed a criminal gang after the regime’s collapse. Local residents welcome the arrest, urging for accountability and transparent investigations into war crimes.

Syrian security forces in Damascus have apprehended Bashar Mahfoud, a former commander of assault groups and head recruiter for the Assad regime’s 25th Division. He is accused of committing war crimes, including kidnapping and robbery, during the Syrian civil war. The arrest is part of broader efforts to combat organized crime and restore order in the capital.

Mahfoud played a pivotal role in the nefarious activities of the 25th Division, infamous for severe human rights violations such as indiscriminate killings and torture. As the commander of assault groups, he was responsible for training fighters for rapid attacks against protestors, leading to widespread atrocities in various regions, including Damascus, Homs, and Hama.

There are numerous allegations against Mahfoud, including the use of heavy weapons in civilian areas, resulting in civilian deaths, notably among women and children. He also faces allegations of involvement in the torture and deaths of detainees within a detention facility operated by the division.

After the dissolution of the previous regime, Mahfoud reportedly transitioned to forming a criminal gang, specializing in kidnapping and armed robbery, targeting affluent individuals in Damascus. His apprehension followed a thorough intelligence operation, leading to additional arrests of his criminal associates.

Local residents have welcomed Mahfoud’s arrest as a significant step towards restoring safety in the region. Activists are now calling for a fair judicial process and transparency in the ongoing investigations, advocating for accountability for those involved in the numerous war crimes committed by the 25th Division and its commanders.

The arrest of Bashar Mahfoud signifies a pivotal movement in the fight against crime and the quest for justice in Syria. His involvement in war crimes and organized crime prompted a strong local response, highlighting the community’s desire for accountability. Activists’ calls for a fair trial and transparency underscore the importance of addressing past atrocities and seeking justice for victims, aiming for a broader inquiry into the actions of the 25th Division and its commanders.

Original Source: www.newarab.com