HTS arrests 31 individuals in Syria’s Idlib
IDLIB, Syria (North Press) – The General Security Service (GSS) of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS – formerly al-Nusra Front) arrested on Wednesday 31 individuals, including nine affiliated militants, in the city of Jisr al-Shughur in Idlib Governorate, northwest Syria, on charges of inciting against the HTS.
An exclusive source told North Press that “the GSS raided several houses in Jisr al-Shughur and its countryside, arresting 31 civilians, including employees of the Salvation Government, the civil wing of the HTS, on charges of inciting protests against the HTS’ leader, Abu Muhammad al-Julani and collaborating with external entities.”
The arrests also targeted nine militants affiliated with the group, on charges of collaboration with hostile entities, including the Global Coalition.
The source indicated that the campaign is expected to expand to other towns and villages in Jisr al-Shughur countryside.
The HTS has been experiencing internal divisions for over two months, with one faction supporting Abu Maria al-Qahtani, a prominent leader within the HTS, and another supporting al-Julani. These divisions became evident during a recent security campaign that targeted numerous leaders and militants affiliated with the group, particularly within the GSS.