700$ sparks clashes in rural Damascus, ends with deportation of those involved

Armed clashes broke out in the Ghazlaniyah area of ​​rural Damascus several days ago. The details and causes were initially unclear. However, after ANHA correspondent closely followed the incident, it became apparent that the clashes stemmed from a dispute over $700.

The resulting events led to dozens of injuries and arrests by security forces of the Syrian Interim Government. Material damage was also reported, including the burning of several vehicles belonging to residents of the area.

According to testimonies from residents of the area, the dispute began when a resident of Ghazlaniyah sent his son to collect $700 from a man originally from Deir ez-Zor who lived in the area. The latter responded with insults and assault.

The situation escalated into armed clashes that lasted for hours before local and community figures intervened to contain the situation and broker a reconciliation agreement between the disputing parties.

The reconciliation agreement, which ANHA agency reviewed, stipulates the restoration of rights to their rightful owners, respect for neighborly relations based on peaceful coexistence, the return of normal life to the area, and a public apology for the wrongdoings committed.

It also includes measures against those involved in instigating the unrest in Ghazlaniyah, including their relocation in exchange for dropping personal charges against them.

The agreement was signed in the presence of representatives of the area's dignitaries and notables, as well as members of the Public Security Forces affiliated with the Interim Government.

A prominent figure in the town, who preferred to remain anonymous, told our correspondent that the widespread availability of weapons following the fall of the Ba'ath regime contributed to the escalation of local conflicts. He noted that the dispute was minor and could have been resolved, as several residents had already collected the money involved.

The prominent figure confirmed that such clashes have become frequent in many areas of Damascus and its countryside, including Sahnaya, Qudsaya suburb, Jaramana, and others. He explained that the ease of carrying weapons and their indiscriminate use has exacerbated problems, in addition to what he termed "the protection afforded to those affiliated with the government."

He added that the efforts of the sheikhs and prominent figures in the area contributed to restoring calm to Ghazlaniyah, despite the social tension the incident created among the residents.

ANHA