Kurdish-led SDF Arrests Militants Allegedly Linked to Syria’s Former Regime in Deir ez-Zor
By Kardo Roj
DEIR EZ-ZOR, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) carried out a major security operation in Deir ez-Zor on Thursday, targeting militants allegedly affiliated with the former Syrian regime. The operation resulted in the arrest of dozens, a military source told North Press.
The operation comes days after the SDF regained control of military posts and headquarters in eastern Deir ez-Zor that had been seized by armed factions earlier this week.
Widespread Operation
According to the source, a senior SDF military official involved in the operation, the campaign targeted multiple areas, including al-Shuhail, Dhiban, Sweidan, al-Janina, and al-Jee’a.
“In al-Janina and al-Jee’a, the SDF, in collaboration with the Internal Security Forces (Asayish), arrested 10 individuals accused of collaborating with the former Syrian regime,” the source said.
The operation extended to the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor, where dozens of individuals were detained. The arrests are part of broader efforts by the SDF to stabilize the region, which has experienced frequent unrest due to ongoing tensions among various factions.
Investigation Underway
The military source emphasized that those arrested would undergo thorough investigations. “If it is proven that they had no links to the former regime, they will be released,” the source added, underscoring the SDF’s focus on due process.
Recent Tensions
The security operation follows escalating tensions in Deir ez-Zor, a region that has long been a hotspot for conflict between various armed groups. The area’s strategic significance and history of regime influence have made it a focal point for SDF operations aimed at preventing the resurgence of threats to regional stability.
The SDF has frequently accused elements loyal to the former regime of attempting to undermine their control in the region, which forms a key part of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
The latest operation reflects ongoing efforts by the SDF and Asayish to combat threats and maintain security in territories under their control.