Rebels Renew Attack on Aleppo Central Prison

Insurgents have renewed their assault on Assad forces inside Aleppo Central Prison, including an attack with a vehicle-borne suicide bomb.

Opposition fighters briefly moved into part of the complex two weeks ago, freeing hundreds of detainees. Syrian forces, supported by airstrikes with barrel bombs, regained control but opposition forces have remained on the perimeter of the complex.

Insurgents see the takeover as more than a military objective. The timing of the latest attacks, which began on Wednesday, was dictated in part by fears of the deaths of inmates from ill-treatment and malnutrition.

Sources say the main entrance to the prison has been damaged and regime outposts have been seized, but there is no confirmation that opposition fighters are again inside the complex. (EA)