Ongoing Forced Displacement and Looting in Damascus’ Al-Sumariya Neighborhood Amid Allegations of Complicity

Ongoing Forced Displacement and Looting in Damascus’ Al-Sumariya Neighborhood Amid Allegations of Complicity
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The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported recent escalations in Damascus’ Al-Sumariya neighborhood, where an armed faction led by a figure known as “Abu Hudhaifa” stormed the area, carrying out looting operations targeting numerous homes. The faction reportedly issued direct threats to remaining residents, predominantly from the Alawite community, demanding forced eviction.

Sources revealed that residents opposing the faction’s actions faced verbal abuse and intimidation, intensifying pressure on a community already enduring ongoing displacement. These developments coincide with media efforts to portray a different narrative about the situation, fueling accusations against local authorities of complicity in a systematic policy aimed at the forced removal of Alawite families from the area.

Further tensions arose after Abu Hudhaifa allegedly threatened lawyer Ali Barakat, following his televised criticism of abuses and illegal practices committed by the faction. Despite official government orders and notices directed at Al-Sumariya’s Alawite residents demanding evacuation by August 30, Abu Hudhaifa reportedly ignored these instructions while publicly insulting the Syrian leadership.

In an attempt to calm rising tensions, community peace committees and prominent Alawite figures close to the government reportedly urged locals to record videos asserting that the neighborhood is “fully safe” and that conditions have normalized. However, some faction members disregarded government directives, raising doubts about the effectiveness of official measures.

The situation in Al-Sumariya reflects broader sectarian and security strains across Damascus and its outskirts, where local peace committees continue mediation efforts amid persistent unrest. Meanwhile, residents remain fearful amid ongoing forced evictions, arbitrary arrests, and an atmosphere of heightened insecurity.