Syrian authorities arrest Assad-era militant suspected of mutilating bodies

The suspect Naser Hani Ruslan. (Syrian Arab News Agency)
Short Url
  • Ruslan was part of a militia linked to the former Assad regime and was reportedly involved in operations against Syrian rebel forces
  • He is accused of participating in serious abuses against Syrians during the country's civil conflict

LONDON: Authorities in the Syrian Arab Republic arrested a suspect for grave violations associated with the defunct Assad regime against civilians during the country’s civil war.

Security forces in the coastal governorate of Latakia have arrested Naser Hani Ruslan, who is accused of participating in serious abuses against Syrians, the Interior Ministry announced.

The ministry added that Ruslan was part of a militia linked to the former Assad regime and was reportedly involved in operations against areas controlled by Syrian rebel forces, including the mutilation of bodies.

Authorities have begun investigations against Ruslan, who is awaiting trial. Following the fall of the Assad regime last December, the new government in Damascus has arrested several suspects, including army officers, for crimes committed against Syrians during the country’s civil conflict.