Kidnapping of Syrian Journalist in Suwayda Sparks Outrage as Security Forces Arrest ISIS Suspect near Damascus

Kidnapping of Syrian Journalist in Suwayda Sparks Outrage as Security Forces Arrest ISIS Suspect near Damascus
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The abduction of a Syrian journalist in the southern city of Suwayda has triggered widespread anger and concern, coming amid heightened security activity in southern Syria, including the arrest of a suspected ISIS operative near Damascus.

According to Middle East News, journalist and civil activist Marhef Al-Shaer was shot at and kidnapped in an incident that took place in central Suwayda. The attack has drawn strong reactions from local residents, civil society activists, and media circles, who warned that the targeting of journalists threatens civil peace and freedom of expression in the predominantly Druze province.

The motives behind the kidnapping have not been officially confirmed, and Syrian authorities have not yet released details about the perpetrators or Al-Shaer’s whereabouts.

Separately, Syrian security forces announced a targeted operation in southern Damascus that led to the arrest of a member of the ISIS terrorist group. Security sources said the suspect was found in possession of weapons, an explosive vest, and digital materials linked to terrorist activities.

Officials stated that the individual was allegedly planning sabotage operations and that his arrest played a significant role in neutralizing potential security threats to the capital.

The two developments underscore the fragile security situation in southern Syria, where concerns persist over both criminal violence and militant activity, despite ongoing security operations by state authorities.