CENTCOM, SDF capture ISIS leader in Raqqa
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – In a coordinated operation on Monday, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces, working alongside the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), successfully captured an Islamic State (ISIS) leader in Raqqa, northern Syria.
Khaled Ahmad al-Dandal, the captured militant, is believed to have been aiding ISIS militants who had recently escaped from a detention facility in Raqqa.
The escape, which took place on Aug. 29, involved five foreign ISIS militants, including two Russians, two Afghans, and one Libyan. While the SDF managed to recapture two of the escapees, CENTCOM confirmed that the search for the remaining three continues.
General Michael Erik Kurilla, commander of CENTCOM, warned of the potential dangers posed by the nearly 9,000 ISIS detainees held across more than 20 facilities in Syria.
He emphasized the critical need to prevent further escapes, stating that any large-scale breakout would pose a severe threat to regional and global stability.
CENTCOM reaffirmed its commitment to working with the SDF to ensure the ongoing defeat of ISIS and safeguard security in the region.