Syrian Interior Ministry Arrests Former Brigadier General with Sensitive Roles under Assad

The Syrian Ministry of Interior declared on Friday that the Internal Security Forces have apprehended the former brigadier general in the previous regime's forces, Rafiq Ahmad Kulthum.

In an official statement, the Ministry clarified that this action is part of ongoing efforts to pursue individuals involved in crimes and violations against the Syrian people.

According to documented data, Kulthum advanced through military ranks until he attained the rank of brigadier general and occupied several sensitive leadership positions. In 2011, he was appointed Chief of Staff of the 116th Brigade within the Air Defense Directorate in Qatifah. The following year, in 2012, he assumed command of the same brigade.

In 2016, he was assigned to lead the eastern countryside of the Salamiya region. By 2018, he was promoted to brigadier general and took command of the central region, supported by Brigadier General Asif al-Dakkar, head of the Officers Affairs Department "293" in Military Intelligence.

Investigations also indicate his involvement in military operations since the outbreak of the revolution, including participation in managing several battles in Damascus and its countryside. Notably, he was involved in the 2018 military offensive on Eastern Ghouta, the statement added.

The Interior Ministry concluded by stating that the relevant authorities are continuing investigative procedures with the detainee, preparing to refer his case to the competent judiciary to take the necessary legal measures against him.