CBS News - Inside a Syrian facility allegedly used to make illegal drugs
The video discusses the aftermath of the Assad regime's fall, highlighting its involvement in the illegal drug trade, particularly with Captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine. A facility near Damascus, once a potato chip factory, was found to contain industrial quantities of chemicals used to produce Captagon. This drug, often called 'Poor Man's Cocaine,' was a major source of income for the bankrupt Assad government, reportedly generating up to $5 billion annually. The regime's focus on profit over the well-being of its citizens led to widespread addiction among young people. The US Treasury has sanctioned members of Assad's family and other Syrians involved in this trade. The recent collapse of this drug business coincides with the regime's downfall.
Key Points:
- The Assad regime used a potato chip factory to produce Captagon, a popular street drug.
- Captagon production generated up to $5 billion annually for the Assad government.
- The drug is known as 'Poor Man's Cocaine' due to its addictive nature and low cost.
- The US sanctioned Assad's relatives for their involvement in the drug trade.
- The regime's collapse has led to the dismantling of its drug operations.