Latakia, Syria – Clashes broke out during protests in the northwestern city of Latakia on Tuesday, resulting in injuries to both security personnel and civilians, according to the Syrian Interior Ministry. The protests were reportedly focused on demanding the release of individuals accused of crimes and abuses during the tenure of former President Bashar al-Assad.
According to a statement from the Latakia’s Internal Security Chief, Abdul Aziz al-Ahmad, as reported by state news agency, SANA, security forces providing protection for a demonstration at al-Zara’a roundabout came under direct fire. The gunfire allegedly originated from an area inhabited by officers linked to the security and military institutions of the previous regime.
Al-Ahmad stated that the shooting resulted in injuries to two internal security officers and a number of civilians participating in the demonstration. These protests are part of a series of demonstrations occurring in several areas of the Syrian coast, as well as in Homs and Hama. Participants are calling for the release of detainees, primarily from the Alawite community, and the establishment of a federal system of governance.
The security official asserted that the demonstrations, which initially appeared as legitimate protests, quickly transformed into platforms for sectarian incitement aimed at sowing division within the local community. He further claimed that protesters were demanding the release of individuals he described as war criminals implicated in acts of violence and serious abuses.
Al-Ahmad also accused groups connected to criminal cells affiliated with remnants of the former regime of fueling chaos and incitement. He alleged that these groups attacked police officers, special forces, and traffic police, and vandalized a number of official vehicles.
Earlier, Interior Ministry spokesman Nour al-Din al-Baba told media outlets that internal security units were securing protest gatherings in some areas of the Syrian coast to prevent any incidents that could be exploited by those promoting chaos. He added that the Interior Ministry upholds the right to freedom of expression, provided it remains within the bounds of the law and does not disrupt civil peace.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation as it develops.
