The Global Story Syria's illegal drug empire
Feb 4, 2025
Amir Nader, a BBC international correspondent and expert on Captagon, discusses the complex drug trade landscape in post-Assad Syria. He highlights the deep ties between the regime and the Captagon narcotic, exploring its addictive appeal and the stark realities of human rights abuses. Nader addresses the challenges faced by new rebel leaders aiming to dismantle this entrenched network and restore stability, while citizens balance hope with skepticism about genuine reform. The conversation reveals the critical impact of the drug trade on Syria's economic recovery and international relations.
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Captagon Addiction: A Personal Story
- Yasser, a young man interviewed at a rehabilitation center in Amman, Jordan, shared his struggles with Captagon addiction.
- He described the drug's devastating impact on his physical and mental health, highlighting its highly addictive nature.
Assad Regime's Captagon Connection
- A BBC investigation revealed the Syrian government's ties to the Captagon trade, focusing on the 4th Armored Division led by Maher al-Assad.
- Court cases in Germany and Lebanon exposed the division's involvement in drug shipments and financial transactions.
Soldiers Driven to Drug Trade
- Interviews with Syrian soldiers revealed that meager army pay pushed them into the Captagon trade.
- They facilitated drug movement for the 4th Division, highlighting the trade's deep entrenchment within the Syrian army.