SDF captures 12 ISIS suspects in Deir ez-Zor
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Saturday the capture of 12 individuals suspected of belonging to ISIS sleeper cells in Deir ez-Zor countryside, eastern Syria.
The Deir ez-Zor Military Council, an SDF component, said in a statement that its fighters in coordination with the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) carried out a sweep operation in the town of Gharanij, east of Deir ez-Zor.
The operation resulted in the capture of 12 ISIS suspects. Four fighters of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council were also freed during the operation.
“During the campaign, participating forces fully swept the town and captured 12 wanted individuals and suspects linked to ISIS sleeper cells,” the statement read. “They were reportedly plotting terrorist operations against security and military forces, civilians, and vital service facilities in the area, with the aim of spreading chaos and destabilizing public safety.”
The Council added that its forces managed to free the four fighters who were abducted on Aug. 14 in the same town.
The Deir ez-Zor Military Council affirmed that the operation comes within its “ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability” in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor.