Gunmen kill 3 Christians in Syria’s Homs, triggering public anger
HOMS, Syria (North Press) – Unidentified gunmen killed on Wednesday three Christians in Homs Governorate, central Syria, a local security official said.
Murhaf al-Naasan, head of the security forces of the Syrian transitional government in Homs, announced the killing of three young men in an armed attack by unidentified gunmen in the village of Annaz, Wadi al-Nasara (Valley of the Christians), west of Homs.
According to local reports, the victims, members of the Christian community, were shot dead in front of the Mukhtar’s office by gunmen on a motorcycle.
The incident has sparked widespread anger and tension across Wadi al-Nasara, a predominantly Christian area known for its stability during Syria’s years-long conflict.
In response to the killings, community dignitaries in the area announced the withdrawal of their candidates from the upcoming parliamentary elections and declared a boycott of the electoral process.
Additionally, schools were suspended, and many residents refrained from reporting to work in protest.
Al-Naasan said that “the concerned authorities immediately took measures to cordon off the area, pursue the assailants, and work to apprehend them and bring them to justice.”
He called on residents to remain calm and avoid responding to rumors or provocations, stressing that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances of the attack and identify those responsible.
Al-Naasan added that the perpetrators intended to destabilize security, sow fear among residents, and influence the parliamentary elections.