Reports of Disappearances in Homs Amid Post-Assad Turmoil

By Kardo Roj 

HOMS, Syria (North Press) – Over the past 48 hours, reports have surfaced of 31 individuals, including former military personnel from the ousted Assad regime, disappearing in Homs, central Syria. The incidents have raised concerns of possible abductions and retaliatory actions.

On December 8, 2024, Bashar al-Assad’s regime fell following a swift takeover by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied factions, leading to significant shifts across Syrian-controlled territories.

Details of the Disappearances

According to a source from the General Security Directorate of HTS, those missing include officers who had obtained temporary reconciliation cards and civilians, primarily from the Alawite and Shiite communities. The affected neighborhoods, such as Zahra, Muhajireen, Nuzha, Wadi al-Dahab, and Armen, are predominantly populated by members of these communities.

The source, speaking to North Press, suggested that the disappearances may involve armed groups believed to be affiliated with the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA). Family members of the missing individuals have expressed fears of potential retaliatory killings.

Ongoing Investigations

HTS’s General Security Directorate has launched investigations into the disappearances but has yet to uncover concrete leads regarding the individuals’ whereabouts. The lack of information has heightened concerns among residents, particularly given the turbulent power shifts and historical tensions in the area.

The situation underscores the precarious security landscape in Syria, particularly for communities associated with the former regime. The coming days are expected to bring more clarity as investigations continue.