Syrian security forces have intensified operations against remnants of the ousted regime, targeting former intelligence officers and collaborators in a series of arrests, raids and confrontations across multiple provinces.
Arrests and Raids Highlight Campaign Against Former Security Figures
Public Security in Daraa arrested Muhammad Mahmoud al-Ghazali, also known as “Muhammad al-Salha,” as he attempted to flee Syria, according to the Houran Free League. Ghazali, a former leader in regime-aligned Popular Committees, stands accused of transporting and burying detainees who died under torture to hide evidence.
Authorities have focused on dismantling networks tied to the Assad regime’s security apparatus. In Homs, the General Security Administration (GSA) arrested Mahmoud Shaddoud, a former Political Security Service officer, following allegations of his involvement in field executions.
Simultaneously, in the Houla region, several individuals—including Ahmad Abdullah al-Akash and Munther Nassif—were detained for roles in post-settlement civilian arrests and deaths in Sednaya prison, according to the Houla Media Office. In Deir Ezzor, Samer Jassem al-Muhammad, the former deputy head of State Security’s Information Branch, was also arrested amid similar allegations of torture and enforced disappearances.
Targeted Killings & Raids in Coastal Provinces
Operations have not been without resistance. In Latakia, a special security unit killed Hassan Ibrahim, alleged leader of a regime-affiliated cell responsible for the March 3 assassination of two security officers. According to SANA, video evidence showed Ibrahim executing captured Ministry of Defense fighters.
The Damascus Countryside Security Directorate also arrested Shadi Abdulmahfouz on March 24 for war crimes and links to attacks on military personnel. Security sources believe Abdulahfouz worked with groups targeting forces in coastal regions.
According to the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR), attacks by regime remnants have resulted in 172 military and 211 civilian deaths, underscoring the threat posed by scattered militant elements.
Foiled Attacks & Hidden Arms in Homs
Security officials in Homs reported foiling a plot to target civilians in the Zahraa neighborhood. One suspect, arrested during a raid, had allegedly been paid to acquire explosives. In a related operation, authorities discovered a tunnel filled with weapons and ammunition.
In al-Muhajireen, a neighborhood in Homs, the security services arrested several suspects believed to be connected to sabotage attempts. The raids are part of a broader crackdown in central Syria, where GSA has faced pushback, including from armed elements within the same towns.
Public Security Emphasizes Rule of Law
In Salamiyah, Hama, police re-arrested four of six escaped prisoners following a high-profile breakout from a local detention facility. Authorities emphasized the need to hold any accomplices accountable.
The Ministry of Interior continues to call on citizens to file complaints against former regime operatives. The campaign is an effort of the security services to deliver justice and end impunity, with Major Mustafa Knefati of Latakia vowing to pursue “all terrorist groups” without exception.
These actions mark a continued attempt to stabilize the post-conflict landscape amid demands for accountability and fair trials for past violations.
