Syrian authorities launch major security operation against ISIS, arrest 71
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Security forces of the Syrian transitional government announced on Saturday the launch of a large-scale security operation targeting Islamic State (ISIS) cells across multiple Syrian governorates, confirming that several members of the group have already been arrested.
In a statement released late Saturday, the Ministry of Interior said the operation will continue for several consecutive days as part of broader efforts to dismantle ISIS networks operating in the country.
Nour al-Din al-Baba, spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, stated that authorities had received intelligence indicating ISIS cells were planning new attacks as Syria prepared to join the U.S.-led Global Coalition to combat the group.
According to al-Baba, the operation involved 61 raids across several regions, including Aleppo, Idlib, Hama, Homs, Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, Damascus and its countryside, and the Syrian desert.
He noted that 71 individuals have been arrested so far, including senior and mid-level commanders, as well as lower-ranking members implicated in attacks targeting civilians and personnel from the Ministry of Defense.
Al-Baba added that the raids also led to the elimination of one ISIS member, the injury of a security officer, and the seizure of weapons, ammunition depots, and logistical equipment hidden in various locations.