Jan 27th – The Kurdish YAT counter-terrorism units have embarked on a critical mission inside the al-Hol detention camp in Syria, focusing on neutralizing ISIS cells operating within. This camp, a sprawling facility housing more than 60,000 individuals, mostly relatives of ISIS militants, has transformed into a breeding ground for extremist activities and ideologies.
Since the defeat of ISIS in Baghouz in 2019, al-Hol has been plagued by a precarious security situation. The dominance of ISIS sympathizers and the emergence of violent, gang-like structures within the camp have led to numerous incidents of brutality and lawlessness. This chaotic environment, exacerbated by inadequate resources and healthcare, has been described as dangerously unstable, with potential for escalating jihadist activities.
The persistence of radical beliefs among the camp’s inhabitants underscores the lingering threat of ISIS ideology. There’s a palpable fear of scenarios like the Al-Sina’a prison breakout, illustrating the potential for large-scale security breaches.
The latest operation, part of the “Humanity and Security” campaign initiated by the Internal Security Forces alongside Syrian Democratic Forces and Women’s Protection Units, represents a significant stride in re-establishing order within the camp. Launched on January 27, this operation involves meticulous searches through the camp’s sectors, particularly those housing foreign ISIS affiliates.
The effectiveness of this operation is evident in the apprehension of several key figures linked to ISIS, the unearthing of hidden weapons caches, and the dismantling of sophisticated underground networks used by extremists. In conjunction with these tactical efforts, the operation also entails systematically documenting the identities of ISIS-affiliated individuals, a critical step in curbing the spread of extremist networks.
While efforts to relocate and repatriate individuals from al-Hol are underway, progress is often hampered by the complex security landscape. Some individuals are being moved to facilities where they undergo reeducation, aiming at their eventual reintegration into society.
This comprehensive operation underscores the ongoing challenge faced by Kurdish and allied forces in managing detention centers like al-Hol, which remain volatile remnants of the ISIS era. The objective remains clear: to stabilize the region and prevent the rekindling of extremist violence.
📌During combing operations inside the migrant sector, the Internal Security Forces found military equipment and tools for digging trenches and shelters, and the forces continue their operations within the camp for the second day in a row.
🌎https://t.co/uiltWXw7zC pic.twitter.com/XD5PY9oxJl
— ANHA English (@enhawarnews) January 28, 2024
📌 Number of ISIS mercenaries arrested during “Humanity and security” Campaign
📌The Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria arrested a number of mercenaries and found mercenary hideouts in al-Hol camp.
🌎https://t.co/A113y9fnHu pic.twitter.com/HIspKWJNkR
— ANHA English (@enhawarnews) January 29, 2024
