Residents of Al-Salamiyah protest rising crime and gun violence

Dozens of residents of Al-Salamiyah, in eastern Hama countryside, staged an angry protest today, denouncing the worsening insecurity and the spread of uncontrolled weapons. The protest comes three days after a local man was killed by unidentified gunmen.

13 February, 2026 17:34

NEWS DESK

Protesters held signs demanding authorities “control illegal weapons” and “provide protection for civilians,” emphasizing the need for justice and accountability for those responsible for the recent series of crimes in the city.

Abu Khaled, a resident of the neighborhood where the incident occurred, said that people no longer feel safe. “We don’t know who is firing or why. Armed men roam the streets without restraint, and our latest victim was killed in front of his children,” he said.

Another participant described the situation in the city as catastrophic, citing repeated robberies, armed thefts, and civilian casualties over the past months.

The protesters urged security forces to track down criminals and bring them to justice promptly, warning against further deterioration of the security situation.

Al-Salamiyah has seen a noticeable rise in random shootings and armed robberies in recent months, causing fear and anger among residents who demand the state restore its authority and enforce the law.

ANHA