Internal Security Forces: Public awareness crucial in fight against ISIS mercenaries

In recent weeks, ISIS cells have intensified their movements across several areas of North and East Syria, particularly in the southern parts of al-Jazira Canton. Security and military forces—chief among them the Internal Security Forces (Asayish)—have succeeded in curbing these activities.

Murad explained that following the collapse of the former regime, the region faced a surge of attacks, with frequency increasing further after the recent massacres in the coastal region and in Sweida.

He noted that ISIS resorts to various methods to bolster its presence, including recruitment through social media platforms, particularly targeting individuals lacking clear identity or purpose beyond embracing extremist ideology. Murad added that ISIS also exploits released prisoners inside Syria, engages in arms and narcotics smuggling, and conducts human trafficking to secure continuous sources of funding. Additionally, the group deliberately fuels local disputes and exploits security gaps in al-Jazira to expand its influence.

According to Murad, ISIS activity is most pronounced near detention facilities holding ISIS families and fighters, as well as in desert and sparsely populated areas where security vulnerabilities persist.

He highlighted that the Internal Security Forces have carried out several significant operations, including the elimination of the militant Abdulrahman Ali, known as “Aboudi,” in the Dhiaba area near Hasakah. He further noted that additional dismantled cells will be announced in the coming days.

Murad stated that ISIS cells recently launched seven attacks, resulting in the martyrdom of three Internal Security personnel; an attack on a checkpoint in al-Shaddadi that left five martyrs.

Along with an attack on Syrian Democratic Forces along the Tel Hamis–Political Line road that left one martyr; and an attack on an Asayish member between Tel Hamis and Tel Brak two days ago.

Murad confirmed that the Internal Security Forces are working to strengthen deployment around detention facilities for ISIS families and fighters, cut off financial and logistical supply lines, and monitor the financial transfers of these cells.

He emphasized that civilians are essential partners in combating ISIS, adding: “Cooperation with the population is the key to security. Providing information on individuals and groups linked to terrorism helps us dismantle plots before they are executed. We guarantee complete confidentiality of any information provided and are committed to spreading awareness among the people.”

Murad also cited the recent abduction of a child by an unidentified group, which the Internal Security Forces managed to resolve within 24 hours by rescuing the child, returning him to his family, and arresting the kidnappers—a development that demonstrated the forces’ readiness and ability to respond swiftly to protect civilians.

He concluded by stating that the post-regime phase presents both opportunities and challenges: while it allows for the possibility of building a democratic system, it also provides an environment ISIS seeks to exploit for recruitment and resurgence.

Murad affirmed that the Internal Security Forces remain fully prepared to confront any threat, reiterating that community awareness and cooperation constitute the primary line of defense for protecting residents and ensuring the region’s security and stability.

a.k

ANHA