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The missing American journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in 2012, was detained by the Assad regime, according to the BBC. Secret sources from former Syrian intelligence services confirmed this to the British broadcaster.
Tice was reportedly arrested in a suburb of Damascus and held by the NDF, a paramilitary force loyal to the ousted President Assad. The US government had previously stated it believed Tice was detained by Assad's government.
A video surfaced seven weeks after his disappearance, showing Tice blindfolded and forced to recite an Islamic declaration. Analysts doubted its authenticity, as no group claimed responsibility or demanded ransom.
Documents labeled 'Austin Tice' reveal that Syrian authorities knew his whereabouts. He was held in a Damascus prison until at least February 2013, with reports of an escape attempt and medical treatment for stomach issues.
Despite the fall of Assad's regime in December 2024, Tice was not found in the emptied prisons. The US continues to seek his return.
