Damascus, Syria – A joint security operation between Syrian and Iraqi authorities has led to the dismantling of an international drug smuggling network and the seizure of approximately 2.5 million Captagon pills, according to the Syrian Ministry of Interior. The coordinated effort underscores Damascus’s commitment to curbing the flow of narcotics through its territory.
This marks the first publicly announced joint operation with a neighboring country on drug-related matters since the new Syrian government came to power in late 2024, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. In recent months, authorities have reported several large seizures of Captagon within Syria.
The Syrian Ministry of Interior stated that the anti-narcotics division, in collaboration with the Iraqi Directorate General for Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, targeted a sophisticated international criminal network involved in the production, distribution, and trafficking of narcotics.
The ministry’s statement emphasized that the operation was the result of meticulous intelligence gathering, analysis, and information sharing between the involved agencies. This included monitoring the network’s structure, logistical routes, and operational patterns. The coordinated raids took place simultaneously in the governorates of Homs and Rif Dimashq in Syria, as well as within Iraqi territory.
The operation resulted in the arrest of two individuals, identified as F.M. and M.A., within Syria, and the apprehension of A.A. in Iraq. The seized Captagon pills represent a significant blow to the network’s operational and logistical capabilities, effectively disrupting a key smuggling route. All seized materials have been confiscated.
The suspects apprehended within Syria have been referred to the relevant judicial authorities for further investigation and legal proceedings. Authorities are continuing to pursue remaining members of the network both within and beyond Syrian borders. The Iraqi Ministry of Interior has confirmed the arrest of one individual within its territory in connection to the operation.
