Arrest of a Former Officer Accused of Suppressing Demonstrations in Aleppo

The Ministry of Interior of the Syrian Interim Government announced the arrest of one of the most wanted individuals in the city of Aleppo — a former officer suspected of involvement in the suppression of peaceful demonstrations during the previous regime.

In an official statement, the ministry said that investigation and surveillance teams carried out intensive monitoring and tracking operations, which culminated in locating one of the most notorious criminals of the former regime era, identified as Alaa Qarqanawi, known as (Abu al-Fidaa), in the al-Hallak area of Aleppo.

The statement added that the raid was carried out pursuant to a decision issued by the Public Prosecution, where the Counter-Terrorism Branch managed to arrest him without any casualties.

According to preliminary information, the detainee was involved in the suppression of peaceful demonstrations while serving as a Major in the security apparatus of the former regime. He also led an armed group and was involved with elements of the “National Defense” and other sectarian groups, exploiting his then-candidacy for membership in the People’s Assembly to secure official cover for his activities.

The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the accused has been referred to the competent authorities to complete investigations in preparation for his presentation before the judiciary, noting that the security campaign against those involved in crimes during the previous regime’s era will continue until justice is achieved and all perpetrators are held accountable.