Syria Seizes Anti-Aircraft Missiles in Deir Ez-Zor Before Smuggling Them

SadaNews - The Syrian Ministry of Interior announced today, Monday, the thwarting of an attempt to smuggle anti-aircraft missiles out of the country in the Deir Ez-Zor countryside in eastern Syria.

The ministry stated in a statement that accurate information was received by the security directorate in Al-Bukamal (east) indicating that anti-aircraft missiles were hidden inside one of the homes, in preparation for smuggling them abroad.

It added that it carried out a well-planned raid based on the information received, which resulted in the seizure of missiles of the "SAM-7" type, noting that the seized weapons have been confiscated.

The ministry pointed out that the relevant authorities have begun their investigations to pursue all those involved in order to arrest them and bring them to justice, emphasizing its continued efforts to combat all activities related to smuggling and illegal activities, and to take all necessary measures to ensure the security and stability of the country.

The ministry did not specify the destination to which the missiles were to be smuggled, but the city of Al-Bukamal is located on the border with Iraq, and has a border crossing (Al-Bukamal/Al-Qaim).

Since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime in late 2024, the Syrian administration has been striving to control security conditions, prevent arms smuggling, and pursue remnants of the fallen regime, in addition to combating the phenomenon of drugs that flourished during the years of the ousted regime's rule.
On December 8, 2024, Syrian rebels managed to enter the capital, Damascus, declaring the overthrow of the previous regime (2000-2024).

Source: Agencies