Syrian Transitional Government (STG) security forces launched a comprehensive combing operation in the Latakia countryside following a series of deadly attacks by remnants of the ousted Assad regime. The operation, led by the General Security Administration (GSA) in cooperation with the Command of Military Operations (CMO), aims to locate and neutralize armed groups responsible for recent ambushes and civilian threats.
Deadly Ambush in Jableh
On Monday, regime remnants ambushed vehicles and a barracks belonging to the CMO in the village of Ain Sharqiya, in the Jableh region. The attack resulted in the deaths of two members with injuries to others and the kidnapping of seven fighters.
Lieutenant Colonel Mustafa Knefati, Director of the General Security Administration in Latakia, condemned the ambush, stating that the assailants were using mountainous terrain and civilian homes in the Jableh area as cover.
“We will not be lenient with these criminals,” Knefati declared. “We will recover our prisoners, protect our civilians, and cleanse Syria of these remnants.”
Operation to Free Captured Fighters
In a counteroffensive, GSA forces discovered the stronghold of a group responsible for the ambush. During the operation, forces clashed with gang members, liberating the captured fighters.
Knefati confirmed the leader of the group, Bassam Hussam al-Din, detonated explosives in an attempt to harm the captives during the raid. “Our forces acted swiftly to secure the captives before the bombs detonated, leading to the leader’s death,” Knefati said.
Five members of the gang were apprehended during the operation, providing crucial intelligence for ongoing efforts to dismantle the remaining cells in the area.
Broader Security Campaign
The GSA and CMO have expanded their efforts across Latakia and other regions. These campaigns target armed groups loyal to the ousted regime who refuse to surrender or disarm, as well as address criminal activities such as smuggling and drug trafficking.
In the nearby city of Banias in Tartous Governorate, security forces conducted a combing operation to apprehend regime loyalists and drug dealers. The operations follow a series of attacks on military and civilian targets by Assad regime remnants.
Civilians Urged to Cooperate
As combing operations intensify, security officials are urging civilians to cooperate fully with the authorities. A spokesperson emphasized the importance of public support in ensuring the success of these campaigns.
In addition to operations in Latakia, security forces reported the seizure of a warehouse containing explosives, including mines and rocket shells, in the village of Umm Harateen, west of Homs.
Continuing Challenges
Despite the successful liberation of captured fighters, security challenges persist. Activists circulated a recording of Bassam Hussam al-Din before his death, threatening to kill the kidnapped fighters and demanding an end to the STG’s operations in Jableh.
The STG remains resolute in its efforts to restore stability. Lieutenant Colonel Knefati reaffirmed the government’s commitment: “We are dedicated to protecting our people and eliminating these threats to ensure a peaceful future for Syria.”
Looking Ahead
As the STG presses forward with its security operations, the government is determined to address the remnants of the Assad regime and ensure the safety of civilians. The ongoing campaigns are a critical step toward rebuilding trust in Syria’s security institutions and paving the way for a stable, unified nation.
