Syrian Minister of Interior Khattab pledges reform in security practices, acknowledges past violations

DARAMSUQ — In March of this year, Syrian Interior Minister Anas Khattab admitted to violations committed by security personnel in the aftermath of the former regime’s collapse, attributing these incidents to inadequate training and preparation. 

Khattab has since detailed ongoing efforts by the Interior Ministry to reform security operations and address past abuses that impacted millions of Syrians. 

Khattab emphasized the ministry’s commitment to establishing a reformed security apparatus, distinctly separate from the practices of the former regime. This initiative includes training programs aimed at enhancing the skills and efficiency of officers and personnel, fostering accountability, and rebuilding trust with the public. 

The minister clarified that the restructured security forces would comprise officers who remained with the ministry during the transitional period and whose records are free of human rights abuses. He also highlighted the implementation of mechanisms to ensure greater transparency, such as the direct oversight of security agencies by the ministry and open channels for public complaints. 

In addressing concerns about masked officers at checkpoints, Khattab explained that this policy was initially adopted to protect personnel with families in areas still controlled by the former regime. However, he announced that this measure is under review and is likely to be discontinued on public roads. 

Khattab assured that the cases of misconduct reported following the regime’s fall would diminish as the new personnel complete their training and operational standards improve. These reforms, he noted, represent a significant step toward fostering a professional and accountable security framework for the nation.