Damascus, Syria – The Internal Security Command in Aleppo Governorate officially announced on Tuesday the end of security operations in the city of Ain al-Arab (Kobani), after completing the deployment of its forces and establishing full security control over all neighborhoods and facilities in the city. The Command confirmed the lifting of the previously imposed curfew and the return of calm and stability to the city. This came after tensions and riots in the area that coincided with the return of displaced persons.
Details of the security deployment and control of the situation
The Internal Security Forces Command, in statements carried by the Syrian state news channel, said that the widespread deployment of its forces was primarily aimed at protecting unarmed civilians, institutions, and public and private facilities. It also aimed to prevent chaos and pursue those involved in attacks on state institutions and the destruction of property.
The leadership revealed the outcome of the field confrontations and security efforts, noting that 19 internal security personnel were injured while performing their national tasks in maintaining security. In the same context, security forces were able to arrest seven people who were described as among the instigators and main causes of the riots. This was done in preparation for transferring them to the competent authorities. Then, the authorities would complete the legal procedures against them in accordance with applicable laws.
Official leadership positions and an affirmation of the state’s prestige
In a related development, the head of internal security in Aleppo Governorate, Colonel Muhammad Abdul Ghani, held an official meeting at the security directorate building in the city of Ain al-Arab. During the meeting, Colonel Abdul Ghani firmly asserted that “the Syrian state flag and its institutions are a red line.” He also emphasized that security forces would continue their duties in protecting civilians and public facilities with utmost clarity. He added that the forces would also pursue all aggressors in accordance with the rule of law. Colonel Abdul Ghani further stated that the security services were working tirelessly to consolidate security and stability in the city. He stressed that the state would never tolerate any attack targeting its sovereign institutions or threatening the safety and livelihoods of its citizens.
Context of events and ongoing efforts in northeastern Syria
It is reported that the cities of Ain al-Arab (Kobani) in the Aleppo countryside and Ras al-Ain (Sere Kaniye) in the Hasakah countryside witnessed disturbances and riots on Monday, coinciding with the initial stages of displaced families returning to their homes. These developments prompted the Internal Security Forces in Aleppo Governorate to declare a curfew in Kobani on Monday night/Tuesday morning until further notice. The situation was subsequently contained militarily and by security forces.
On the political and military front, Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), condemned the attacks on displaced Kurdish families returning to Ras al-Ayn in a post on the “X” platform. He also expressed his understanding of the angry reactions on the Kurdish street. At the same time, he called for maximum restraint. He urged people not to be drawn into any irresponsible actions and to protect civilian and security institutions.
This intensified security deployment in Kobani comes as part of the ongoing arrangements to integrate the city’s internal security forces into the Syrian Ministry of Interior’s structure. This follows the official handover of the Aleppo Internal Security Directorate building to its leadership. In addition, it comes with the commencement of its security and administrative duties and responsibilities in the city.
