17 Killed in clashes in Tartus Province, Syria

Death toll and details of the clashes

The death toll initially reported as nine, was later updated to 17, including 14 members of the General Security force under Syria’s new authorities, along with three armed men. The violence escalated after the forces attempted to arrest Mohammed Kanjo Hassan, a former officer linked to Saydnaya prison, known for its brutal conditions.

Wanted officer and his role in Saydnaya Prison

Mohammed Kanjo Hassan, the officer at the center of the clash, was previously the director of the military justice department and chief of the field court. According to the Syrian Observatory, he was responsible for issuing death sentences and arbitrary judgments against thousands of prisoners during his tenure.

Ambush and resistance from local residents

The situation in Tartus province, which is a stronghold of Assad's Alawite minority, intensified when local residents resisted the search of their homes. The officer’s brother and armed men set up an ambush targeting a security patrol, leading to the fatal clashes. The Syrian Observatory reported that dozens of individuals were arrested in the aftermath of the violence.

Interior minister condemns the attack

In response to the incident, Syria's new Interior Minister Mohammed Abdel Rahman condemned the ambush, stating that 14 interior ministry personnel were killed and 10 others wounded. He described the attack as a "treacherous ambush by remnants of the criminal regime" during efforts to maintain security in the region