Lebanese investigation uncovers Hezbollah-linked military training network

An investigation into a network involving Syrian and Lebanese military and security personnel has uncovered a Hezbollah-linked official accused of managing a military training camp in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, senior judicial sources tell Lebanon Debate.

The Hezbollah official was identified as Yasser Alaa al-Din, also known as “Abu Alaa.” Judicial sources said he remains at large and has been charged alongside other fugitives, including a former Syrian army brigadier general from the Jaber family who is currently in Russia and allegedly also supervised the network.

Five detainees have also been charged in connection with the case. They include two brothers who previously served in Lebanon’s security forces, one of whom was expelled from the Internal Security Forces, as well as Syrian army Colonel Ali Manaf Safi.

Safi is accused of helping smuggle Syrians into Lebanon through a village near the northern border. According to the investigation, he concealed his activities while working as a coffee vendor.

The provisions carry penalties of up to life imprisonment and cover offences including forming an armed gang with the intention of committing crimes against people and property, as well as acts aimed at undermining the authority and prestige of the state.

According to the investigation, Syrians were allegedly smuggled into Lebanon and taken first to Beirut’s southern suburbs before being transferred to the Bekaa Valley. They were then reportedly trained at the camp for potential security operations along the Syrian coast.

Investigators also accused the network of smuggling weapons and hiding them in agricultural rooms in a town in Lebanon’s northern Akkar region. The weapons were allegedly later transported to the Bekaa Valley.

By Sabina Mammadli