Internal Security Forces Commander: ISIS mercenaries recompose their ranks

The Internal Security Forces of Deir ez-Zor canton spokesperson, Commander Mahmoud al-Khalouf, clarified that local conflicts among the influential powers in the Middle East drive the revival of ISIS mercenaries in the region, primarily in Deir ez-Zor. He cited a series of actions being undertaken by the security forces to address this developing threat.

Mahmoud al-Khalouf explained in an interview with Hawar news agency (ANHA) that the huge desert region and lack of security supervision in most of Syria, particularly west of the Euphrates river, "are a fertile ground for the return of extremist forces," particularly ISIS mercenaries. He explained that "the security vacuum left behind by the regime's collapse and the absence of organized military forces have greatly facilitated the relative freedom of movement of ISIS cells in some areas."

Al-Khalouf stated that the Internal Security Forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces, supported by Global Coalition, have launched a series of targeted security operations against ISIS cells in Deir ez-Zor over the past four months. The operations included the arrest of many members and leaders, including Hamoud Abdullah al-Khatib, alias "Abu Zakaria," and Khaled Marbad Ubaid, alias "Abu Omar."

Al-Khalouf further revealed that interrogations with the detainees revealed that ISIS mercenaries are actively attempting to reconstitute their cadres and recruit new members, including children, to use them in carrying out attacks against security personnel as well as civilians with the aim of destabilizing the situation.

With regard to the steps taken, Al-Khalouf said that the Internal Security Forces in Deir ez-Zor have increased their field presence through reinforcing security checkpoints, round-the-clock patrols, tightening control at the borders of crossings, and the tracking of the movement of individuals entering the area.

Concluding his statement, the Internal Security Forces' spokesperson called for close cooperation by the people of Deir ez-Zor with the security authorities and for them to report any suspicious activities. He emphasized that "security is a collective responsibility, and community solidarity is the first line of defense against terrorism."

T/S
ANHA