Rising Thefts and Looting Stir Fear in Syria’s Alawite Villages

Rising Thefts and Looting Stir Fear in Syria’s Alawite Villages
…………..

Several Alawite-majority villages in western Hama countryside have witnessed a surge in armed robberies and looting, sparking widespread fear among residents, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The group reported that unidentified assailants have been targeting cars, motorcycles, and shops using firearms in swift and violent attacks.

The wave of thefts has severely disrupted daily life and local commerce. Many shop owners have reduced business hours or closed early to avoid potential assaults, further straining an already fragile local economy. Residents say the absence of effective security measures has left them vulnerable and deepened their sense of insecurity.

Despite repeated complaints, locals claim there has been little government or security response to contain the growing threat. The Observatory warned that the lack of deterrent action could embolden more attacks and exacerbate instability in the region.

The organization called on the Syrian government and controlling factions in western Hama to take urgent steps to curb the looting, protect civilians, and hold perpetrators accountable. It emphasized that restoring even minimal levels of safety and stability is essential to preventing further deterioration of the security situation in these communities.