Syrian Drug Lab Reveals Illicit Captagon Trade
Captagon, often referred to as the “poor man’s cocaine,” is an addictive amphetamine-like stimulant that has become a significant concern in the Middle East due to its widespread abuse and links to regional conflicts. Here’s a detailed look at the origins, effects, and the rising influence of this drug in the region.
Origins of Captagon
Captagon was initially developed in the 1960s in Germany for legitimate medical applications, such as treating narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Its active ingredient, fenethylline, was found to heighten focus and suppress hunger and sleep. However, due to its addictive nature and harmful side effects, Captagon was globally banned and officially discontinued in the 1980s.
Despite the ban, illicit production continued, with manufacturing shifting to Eastern Europe and parts of the Arab world, where Captagon remains a thriving black-market drug.
Effects of Captagon
The drug’s stimulant properties make it attractive to users seeking enhanced focus and energy, particularly in environments where alertness is prized. However, its harmful side effects include:
- Severe addiction
- Cardiovascular issues
- Psychosis
- Aggressive behavior
- Long-term cognitive impairment
The Lab Discovery in Syria
Recent discoveries have highlighted the massive scale of Captagon production in Syria. One notable lab was uncovered on the western edge of Damascus in the Douma area, believed to be one of the largest Captagon labs in regime-held Syria.
Findings at the Lab
Authorities found:
- Thousands of Captagon pills concealed in items like furniture, fruit, decorative pebbles, and voltage stabilizers.
- Chemical ingredients such as chloroform, potassium iodide, acetic acid, and petroleum ether, reportedly sourced from countries including Britain, China, and India.
Accusations and Political Links
The Captagon trade in Syria is alleged to be controlled by government forces, with accusations specifically directed at President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and his brother Maher al-Assad. The Syrian army’s Fourth Division is believed to oversee the production and trafficking operations.
- Economic Impact: The regime reportedly profits approximately $2.4 billion annually from the trade, which represents a significant portion of the estimated $10 billion global Captagon market.
- Branding: Captagon pills are often branded with logos like the “double crescent” and “Lexus.”
Impact on the Middle East
The widespread availability of Captagon has driven addiction and drug abuse in many Gulf Arab states, exacerbating social and public health crises. The trade has also fueled ongoing regional conflicts, creating a complex web of security, economic, and humanitarian challenges.
Conclusion
Captagon’s rise as a drug of choice in the Middle East underscores a pressing need for international cooperation to curb its production and distribution. Addressing the root causes of its proliferation, including political instability and conflict, is essential to mitigating its destructive impact on societies across the region.
