Mystery surrounds the whereabouts of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad after a plane that took off from Damascus disappeared from radar. Rebel fighters have ended over five decades of Assad family rule, storming the capital and declaring freedom for Syria.
Online rumours suggest Assad may have been on the flight, which vanished from radar near Homs. Sources indicate it is 'highly probable' the aircraft was shot down. The Ilyushin Il-76T, a type used by the Russian military, dropped off radar at 5.29am after losing altitude.
Flightradar24 noted the signal loss could be due to an older transponder or GPS jamming in the area. Meanwhile, Russia confirmed Assad's resignation following negotiations with rebels, stating he left the country and instructed a peaceful transfer of power.
Russia, a key ally to Assad, said it did not participate in the negotiations but is in contact with all Syrian opposition groups. The situation remains fluid as rebels have stormed Assad's palace.
