Wealth and Influence of Assad's Relatives in London
Recent revelations from The Sunday Times have shed light on the lives and wealth of relatives of Syria's ousted president, Bashar al-Assad, now residing in London. Since the fall of the Assad regime, there has been growing interest in the whereabouts and financial dealings of his family members, particularly in the UK capital. The report highlights a network of individuals linked to Assad's regime who continue to thrive in London, despite international sanctions.
The newspaper detailed the luxurious lifestyles of Assad's relatives, including Suleiman Maarouf, a property tycoon and personal assistant to Asma al-Assad, Bashar's wife. Maarouf and his family live in an upscale area of St. John's Wood, having purchased their home for £3.5 million in 2014. Despite being sanctioned by the European Union in 2012, Maarouf's assets have reportedly increased, with his company, Abbey Real Estate Investment, valued at £18.6 million. The report also notes that Maarouf assisted Asma in her shopping excursions, including a notable purchase of a £2,650 vase from Harrods.
Asma's family, including her parents and brothers, reside in a modest home in Acton, London. While they are subject to US sanctions, they are not penalized under British law. Dr. Fawaz Al-Akhras, Asma's father, continues to work in the UK healthcare system, despite past allegations of advising Assad on suppressing dissent.
The Shadow of Sanctions and Controversy
The Sunday Times also reported on Rifaat al-Assad, Bashar's uncle, who owns a £30 million mansion in Mayfair. His assets have been frozen due to a 2020 conviction in France for money laundering, and he remains a controversial figure due to his history of violence in Syria. His son, Ribal, is believed to use the family estate during visits to the UK.
Additionally, the report mentions Amr Armanazi, a key figure in Syria's chemical weapons program, whose family also resides in London. The US has imposed sanctions on Armanazi, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding the Assad regime's legacy and its connections to the UK. The presence of these individuals in London raises questions about the effectiveness of sanctions and the UK's stance on individuals associated with oppressive regimes.
