By Siwar Hamo
AFRIN, Syria (North Press) – Following the takeover of the Turkish-backed armed factions, aka the Syrian National Army (SNA), of areas in Aleppo northern countryside, locally known as Shahba region, thousands of families were displaced to northern and eastern Syria. Some, however, chose to return to Afrin after six years of displacement. The journey and life in Afrin in northwestern Syria upon their return have been marred by violations, including extortion, arrests, and violence.
Reports from Afrin reveal that families returning to their homes often face exorbitant “taxes” demanded by militias living in their houses. Those unable to pay are denied access to their properties.
On Nov. 30, the SNA factions initiated “Dawn of Freedom,” operation capturing the town of Tel Rifaat in the north of Aleppo and other villages and IDP camps after clashes with Kurdish forces. The operation displaced thousands of families, many of whom had already been forced to flee Afrin in 2018 following the Turkish “Olive Branch Operation”.
Arrests, abuse
Local sources reported the arrest of dozens of men aged 20 to 45 by the SNA factions. Accusations of prior affiliation with the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) were often cited.
Many detainees were sent to the military police headquarters in Qatmah before being transferred to the Marateh prison. Reports indicate that detainees were subjected to verbal abuse, physical assault, and torture. Some were released after paying bribes, while others await trial.
On Dec. 12, the Syrian Observatory Human Rights (SOHR) documented the arrest of three displaced civilians without clear charges. Violations also included looting of newly displaced families’ possessions and restrictions on freedom of movement due to fears of further arrests.
Extortion, property theft
Returning families have faced demands for large sums of money to reclaim their homes. The factions have reportedly stolen windows, doors, and other property from houses in villages such as Sahra.
In districts like Sharran, Rajo, and Jindires, abandoned homes have been looted, leaving returnees with little to reclaim. The al-Amshat faction, among others, has been accused of extorting residents and imposing taxes, ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 per person, as a prerequisite for entry or residency.
In Sheikh Hadid town, west of Afrin, the al-Amshat faction imposed taxes on agricultural assets, including $1 per olive tree owned by residents and $25 for trees owned by displaced individuals. Families unable to pay faced threats of arrest or further displacement.
Deteriorating humanitarian situation
The humanitarian crisis in Afrin continues to escalate amid reports of widespread abuses. Civilians face restricted movement, financial extortion, and a lack of basic rights. International and human rights organizations have called on Turkey to curb the actions of its affiliated factions and address violations against civilians, yet no tangible interventions have been made.