By Atoun Jan
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The spread of narcotics, illegal weapons, and counterfeit currency has become a growing phenomenon across Syria since the onset of the conflict. Northeastern Syria has not been an exception to this trend. In response, the Asayish (Internal Security Forces) and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have intensified operations in the region, seizing drugs, arms, and counterfeit money, and arresting thousands involved in illicit activities.
According to North Press reports, in 2023, Asayish forces arrested 3,300 individuals involved in drug-related crimes, including 172 smugglers, 963 dealers, and 2,165 users. The operations led to the confiscation of over 2 million narcotic pills, including Captagon and heroin, as well as substantial amounts of hashish and drug paraphernalia.
In 2024, security operations continued with the arrest of 3,485 individuals across 2,387 cases. These included 305 smuggling cases, 542 distribution cases, and 1,540 drug use cases. Seized items included approximately 41.6 kg of crystal meth, 272.6 kg of cannabis, 275 cannabis cigarettes, 16,241 drug needles, over 3,000 Captagon pills, 70,000 assorted medication pills, 570 grams of heroin, 35.5 grams of cocaine, 541 cannabis seedlings, and 1,745 kg of cannabis seeds.
In addition to narcotics, Asayish forces targeted counterfeit currency and illegal weapons trafficking. In 2021, authorities reported seizing 512 fake documents, including $531,270 and 1,442,000 Syrian pounds in counterfeit money. They also confiscated 168 pistols, 358 assorted weapons, 54 hand grenades, and 1,324 bullets
These operations reflect ongoing efforts by Asayish and SDF to dismantle organized crime networks and maintain security and stability in northeastern Syria. Authorities continue to pursue suspects and investigate broader networks to prevent future criminal activity.