Rebels claim Assad has fled as they capture Damascus

DAMASCUS: Syrian rebels have declared the capture of Damascus and claimed that President Bashar al-Assad has fled the city.

Rebel forces in the capital announced it is now “free” from Assad’s rule as government troops withdraw. Reports indicate that Assad left Damascus by plane for an unknown destination.

Gunfire has been reported in central Damascus as the rebels continue their rapid offensive against Assad’s regime across Syria.

Unverified videos circulating on social media show thousands of prisoners being released from the notorious Saydnaya prison, where many of Assad’s critics were allegedly tortured and executed.

The rebel advance on Damascus follows their announcement that they had “fully liberated” Homs.

(Inputs from BBC)