Syrian transitional government security forces have arrested former Grand Mufti of the Republic Sheikh Ahmed Badreddin Hassoun at Damascus International Airport.
The religious figure tried to flee the country, Syrian television reported.
According to Sham FM radio, Sheikh Hassoun was heading to Amman, where he was to undergo emergency surgery. The former mufti had informed authorities in advance of his desire to travel to Jordan for treatment. However, he was arrested a few minutes after arriving at the airport's VIP lounge.