Syrian security dismantles criminal cell after deadly attacks

• Authorities arrest all members of a cell linked to attacks in Idlib and Aleppo countryside.
• Six security and customs personnel were killed in separate incidents this month.

Syrian security forces have dismantled a dangerous criminal cell accused of carrying out a series of armed attacks against security targets in the countryside of Idlib and Aleppo, according to a statement cited by the state-run Syrian Arab News Agency, SANA.

An official security source said all members of the cell were arrested following what was described as a rapid and coordinated operation, after attacks that left six members of security and customs forces dead during the current month.

Ambush on Damascus–Aleppo highway

The source said the arrests came after the latest attack carried out by the group two days earlier, when its members ambushed a Roads Security patrol on the Damascus–Aleppo international highway.

The attack took place near the city of Maaret al-Numan in southern Idlib countryside. According to the statement, the assailants used various types of weapons, killing four members of the Roads Security force.

The incident prompted a wide security mobilization to track down the attackers and determine their whereabouts.

Link to earlier customs attack

Initial investigations also linked the cell to a previous attack on a vehicle belonging to the customs authority on Dec. 3, the source said.

That incident occurred in southern Aleppo countryside and resulted in the deaths of two customs officers. Authorities said the findings indicate the cell was operating in an organized manner, targeting international roads and state institutions responsible for security and economic protection.

Ongoing investigations

The security source said investigations are continuing to determine the group’s connections and any parties supporting it. The suspects are expected to be referred to the judiciary to face trial.

Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining security and preventing further attacks on key transport routes and public institutions.