Assad Family Allegedly Profits from Syria’s Scrap Metal Trade

An investigation reveals Assad’s inner circle controls Syria’s scrap metal. Maher Al Assad’s 4th Division embeds soldiers in metal plants. Plants must buy metal from military-linked dealers. This creates a profitable cartel. The cartel controls Aleppo’s scrap flow. They use intermediaries for iron and copper trade. These metals are vital for Syria’s rebuilding. Workers report 4th Division rooms in plants. The division takes a cut of profits. Operations generate billions of Syrian pounds monthly. The pound’s value is very low.

Sanctioned Businessman Hamsho’s Involvement

Mohammed Hamsho aids the monopoly. He is a sanctioned businessman. He works with the 4th Division. His involvement links political elite to the underground economy. Large sums profit at Syria’s expense. This hinders reconstruction and development.

“Small Mafia” Controls Collection and Distribution

A network of local collectors gathers scrap. They collect from abandoned buildings. They sell low-quality metal to melt shops. Shops must accept these materials. Metal quality is often poor. This deprives Aleppo of quality materials. The system profits Assad’s family and associates.

Regulatory Reform Recommendations

Experts suggest reforms for Syria’s scrap sector. Ethical practices must be reinstated. Ayman Al Dassouki recommends re-establishing the Syrian Metals and Steel Council. This could set recycling standards. Measures could reduce corruption. They would set the stage for transparent rebuilding.