Police forces took to the streets of Suwayda Sunday morning, June 15, in a move officials say marks the formal activation of the judicial police in the province. The deployment, rooted in an agreement between local dignitaries and the Syrian government, aims to bolster public order and ensure the stability of key civil processes, particularly the administration of upcoming school exams.
The launch followed a high-level meeting at police headquarters in central Suwayda. Officers and staff reviewed deployment strategies and operational mechanisms, with a clear priority placed on safeguarding educational institutions during exam season.
Public Messaging Underscores Unity and Civil Cooperation
In a symbolic appearance before the Suwayda Governorate building, several officers from the newly deployed judicial police addressed residents directly. One officer stated, “In response to the wishes of the residents and in implementation of the memorandum of understanding signed with the government, we have begun activating the judicial police force today with the efforts of the governorate’s residents. We count on the cooperation of all civil authorities to ward off the dangers of chaos and violations.”
Their remarks emphasized both the grassroots nature of the initiative and the importance of civic involvement. Authorities appear to be taking care to frame the deployment not as an imposition, but as a shared enterprise between state institutions and the local population.
Louay al-Shoufi, security officer with the Suwayda Police Command, reinforced that narrative in a video address. “The doors are open to those with legitimate rights and demands,” he said. “We are all under the rule of law, and there is no room for chaos or disorder. We are counting on the awareness and cooperation of Suwayda residents as the judicial police force begins to operate.”
Focus on Exams as a Barometer of Stability
Brigadier General Kifah al-Naddaf, speaking to Al-Rasid Network, highlighted the importance of maintaining calm in the coming weeks. “Security services will work to ensure the smooth running of the upcoming exam process,” he said, calling the effort a “priority at the current stage.”
School exams, which have frequently been disrupted in unstable parts of the country, serve as a litmus test for broader public confidence in state institutions. Officials hope a peaceful exam period will signal progress in restoring security.
Local Leadership Emphasizes Role of Interior Ministry
This latest deployment stems from a statement issued in early May, following discussions between Suwayda’s community leaders and government representatives. The declaration affirmed the province’s commitment to national unity and called for increased engagement by the Ministry of Interior, including through police forces composed of local residents.
The statement also urged the state to secure the Suwayda-Damascus road—an area that has witnessed periodic unrest—and to maintain safety across the country to ensure “the peace of mind of citizens.”
Sunday’s activation of the judicial police appears to be the first major step in carrying out that agreement.
