Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad illegally transferred $135 billion to Russia, Khalid Bey, an intelligence officer from the ousted Syrian regime, has informed the Turkish newspaper Turkiye Gazetesi.
Rebel forces entered the capital, Damascus, on Sunday, 8 December, overthrowing President Bashar al-Assad and taking control of the country. Assad’s removal was celebrated by Syrians both at home and abroad. In Damascus, rebels and civilians looted the former dictator’s palaces, with videos showcasing Assad’s opulent lifestyle and extensive car collection, including a Ferrari F50. He has since sought refuge in Russia.
According to Major Bey, Assad smuggled $135 billion to Russia.
The intelligence officer did not disclose any specific details about the transfer of this substantial sum to Russia.
He also discussed the conflict between pro-Russian and pro-Iranian factions within the army loyal to Assad.
“The first battle took place between the Aleppo commander, General Muhammad Safadli, and the Russian-loyal General Suheil Hassan. The exchange of information between military intelligence and the army stopped. The defeat, which began on the day Aleppo fell, led the opposition to Damascus,” Bey stated.
