Audit uncovers large-scale corruption case in Idlib during ousted regime

Damascus, March 17 (SANA) – Syria’s Central Organization for Financial Control has uncovered a major corruption case dating back to the period of the defunct regime, involving an estimated 20 billion Syrian pounds (old currency) in unpaid public funds linked to land exploitation in Idlib.

According to the commission’s findings, the case centers on the misuse of authority and manipulation of public auctions involving agricultural lands that belonged to citizens who had been forced to leave their properties at the time.

Land exploitation and financial irregularities

Investigations revealed that during a review of financial records at the Idlib Finance Directorate for 2023 and 2024, significant outstanding dues were linked to auctions organized by the provincial authorities to lease agricultural land.

These lands were reportedly allocated under questionable circumstances to individuals presented as investors, many of whom were later found to be fictitious or acting on behalf of influential figures.

The report found evidence of collusion between members of the auction committee and individuals with influence, including senior local officials at the time, in violation of established financial and administrative procedures.

Under official regulations, bidders were required to pay 50% of the lease value upfront and the remainder within seven days, but these conditions were not enforced, leading to the accumulation of large unpaid sums.

Legal action and recovery efforts

As a result of these irregularities, unpaid financial obligations reached approximately 20 billion Syrian pounds, representing a significant loss to public funds.

Authorities have referred those involved during the period of the defunct regime to the judiciary on charges including abuse of power and breach of official duties. Measures taken include asset freezes on movable and immovable properties linked to the suspects, as well as travel bans pending the completion of legal proceedings, in an effort to recover public funds.

The case forms part of broader efforts by oversight bodies to address corruption cases dating back to previous administrations.

Earlier this month, the commission also revealed a separate corruption case at Damascus University, involving embezzlement and forged payroll checks, with financial losses exceeding 858 million Syrian pounds.