Discovery of Captagon Pills in Damascus
In a significant development, the new security authorities in Syria have uncovered a large cache of Captagon pills within the security square of the ousted regime in Kafr Sousa, Damascus. This discovery comes after the recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's government on December 8, following a rapid military offensive that began on November 27. The new authorities reported the immediate destruction of approximately one million Captagon pills, alongside other narcotics including cannabis and Tramadol, in an effort to combat drug trafficking and protect the community.
Background on Captagon Production
Under Bashar al-Assad's rule, which lasted for 24 years, Syria became notorious for the production of Captagon, a powerful amphetamine that has flooded markets across the Middle East, particularly affecting neighboring Iraq and Gulf states. The drug trade has generated over $10 billion in revenue, making Captagon Syria's largest export, surpassing all legal exports combined. This illicit trade has drawn the attention of international authorities, leading to US sanctions against several Syrian officials suspected of involvement in drug trafficking.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Drug Trade
The recent findings are part of a broader initiative by the new Syrian government to dismantle drug networks previously operated by the Assad regime. Security forces have vowed to continue their search for additional warehouses and drug production facilities, aiming to eliminate the narcotics trade that has plagued the country. The destruction of these drugs is seen as a crucial step in restoring order and protecting Syrian society from the devastating impacts of addiction and trafficking.
