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Syrian Spy Network in Netherlands Exposed: Mazen al-Hammada Documented Victim
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Scale of Money Paid to Spies Proves Former Regime's Investment in Massive Resources to Pursue Opponents Abroad Instead of Improving Syrians' Conditions
Journalistic investigations by a local Dutch website revealed details about a Syrian spy network active in the Netherlands, operating from a luxurious villa in the residential area of De Kwekerij in Maarssen-Dorp, which led to the murder of Syrian opposition figure Mazen al-Hammada.
Investigations highlighted the role of spy Majed A., who feigned seeking refuge in the Netherlands in 2014, later managing a furniture store in Nieuwe Fellenord, Eindhoven, as a front for intelligence activities.
Leaked banking data showed Majed A. received approximately 800,000 euros over three years for services to Syrian intelligence, with funds transferred through four Dutch companies between 2019 and 2021.
A defector from Syrian paramilitary forces revealed details of a secret investigation, exposing Majed A. as a "contractor" rather than an intelligence officer, seeking to prove loyalty to the former regime by targeting opposition members in Europe.
The investigations emphasized the role of Mohammed al-Samouri, associated with the "embassy mafia", who previously worked as intelligence chief in London before moving to the Syrian "European Union Mission" in Brussels, facilitating al-Hammada's entrapment by issuing a forged passport.
Leaked documents reveal intriguing details about the spy network's operational mechanism, including a secret contract between Majed A. and an intermediary in English referencing "finding victims" for 7,000 euros, excluding VAT.
Analysts suggest the intelligence network's success in operating within the Netherlands raises questions about surveillance effectiveness regarding suspicious refugee activities, especially with Majed A. purchasing a luxury Mercedes worth 122,800 euros without arousing authorities' suspicions.
Opposition sources suggest al-Hammada's case might be one of many undiscovered instances, calling for an international investigation into Syrian intelligence networks in Europe.
Levant-Agencies
