Syrian authorities of the Syrian Transitional Government (STG) announced Monday the conclusion of a sweeping security operation in Homs aimed at apprehending remnants of the Assad regime and securing illegal weapons caches. The campaign, led by the General Security Administration (GSA) in cooperation with the Command of Military Operations (CMO), was launched to stabilize neighborhoods still affected by war criminals and fugitive militants.
Key Arrests & Seizures
The General Security Administration reported the arrest of individuals accused of crimes against Syrians during the Assad regime’s rule, including figures implicated in atrocities such as the 2012 Karm al-Zaytoun massacre.
Among those detained was Muhammad Nour al-Din Shalhoum, a former official linked to Sednaya prison surveillance and accused of aiding in concealing crimes by disabling security cameras. Saher Al-Naddaf, a field commander alleged to have participated in massacres against civilians.
Authorities also uncovered an ammunition depot in the Al-Zahraa neighborhood and seized hidden weapons in multiple areas, including Wadi al-Dhahab and Akrama. The security operation extended to several neighborhoods, including Al-Abbasiyah, Al-Sabil, and Al-Muhajireen, as well as nearby towns like Rastan and Talbiseh.
Establishing Stability
The Director of the GSA in Homs emphasized that the operation achieved its primary goals of dismantling weapons stockpiles and bringing suspects to justice. “Anyone proven guilty will be referred to the judiciary to receive just punishment. We reject cases of revenge outside the judiciary and hold accountable those who commit them,” he said.
Military forces involved in the campaign will withdraw from the affected areas, leaving general security checkpoints to maintain order and ensure long-term stability. Residents were encouraged to report any violations or transgressions by participating in STG forces to GSA centers.
Community Concerns & Individual Violations
While the operation aimed to restore security, some residents expressed concerns about alleged misconduct. Maan Saleh, a member of a civil peace group, reported incidents of intimidation, including heavy gunfire in the air, property vandalism, and mistreatment of detainees.
“There were some isolated cases of improper behavior, such as confiscating vehicles or breaking household items, but the majority of forces conducted themselves professionally,” Saleh said. He also noted the campaign’s focus on areas with high crime rates, where kidnappings and killings had been reported.
Commitment to Rights & Inclusivity
The caretaker administration has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens and addressing security concerns through lawful means. Diplomatic partners have echoed the importance of inclusivity during Syria’s transition.
