Damascus: Preliminary investigations have revealed that nine detained pilots in Syria conducted airstrikes during more than 3,200 flight hours since the onset of the Syrian revolution in 2011, a source from Syria's Interior Ministry stated on Friday.
According to Anadolu Agency, the state-run Alikhbariah TV reported the remarks after authorities announced the capture of the nine pilots in Latakia province over alleged involvement in 'war crimes against the Syrian people'. The pilots reportedly utilized various military aircraft, including Mi-24 attack helicopters, Su-22 fighter jets, MiG-29s, and MiG-21s.
The airstrikes primarily targeted areas such as Eastern Ghouta, Aleppo and its northern countryside, Deir ez-Zor and its surroundings, and the Hama countryside. Their missions entailed combat sorties, bombings of revolutionary positions and populated areas, reconnaissance, and target identification. The source highlighted their responsibilities in equipping aircraft with explosive munitions and executing technical checks and operational preparations.
The pilots were also involved in identifying locations, preparing target data, directing missions, and transporting former regime officers to combat zones. A statement by Latakia Internal Security Commander Abdulaziz al-Ahmad mentioned that the arrests were a result of security operations conducted with the Counterterrorism Branch, involving surveillance, tracking, intelligence gathering, and investigations.
Al-Ahmad indicated the detainees participated in numerous operations that resulted in deaths, injuries, and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. The arrested individuals include Brig. Gen. Manhal Anwar Saleh, Brig. Gen. Sami Ibrahim Mahmoud, Brig. Gen. Ghiyath Ali al-Rahiyah, Col. Issa Ezzeddine Khaddur, Col. Marwan Salah Nafesh, Col. Bashar Samir Wannous, Lt. Col. Ayham Hamza Aliya, Capt. Ayham Ahmad Daoud, and Capt. Ammar Issa Junaidi.
The arrests are part of ongoing efforts to hold accountable those responsible for crimes against Syrians, ensuring they are referred to the judiciary. Syrian authorities continue to announce the arrests of individuals accused of violations against civilians since the revolution began in March 2011, eventually leading to the toppling of the Assad regime in December 2024.