Surge in Abductions of Shia Women and Youth Raises Alarm in Syria

Surge in Abductions of Shia Women and Youth Raises Alarm in Syria
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A rising wave of abductions targeting Shia women and young men in Syria, particularly around Damascus, has sparked growing concern among families and rights groups, Shia Waves Persian reported.

In recent weeks, armed groups have carried out repeated kidnappings, often stopping victims on their way home from work or school. The latest case occurred in the Damascus suburb of Aqraba, where a young Shia man was seized by unidentified gunmen and taken to an unknown location.

Local reports indicate that similar incidents have been reported in other Syrian provinces in recent months. Families of victims say they have repeatedly appealed to the new Syrian government and security agencies but have received no clear response. The identities and motives of the perpetrators remain unknown.

Observers suggest the kidnappings may be aimed at spreading fear among minority communities, while others link the surge to security gaps following Syria’s political transitions.

Human rights organizations have warned of severe humanitarian and social consequences, urging the Syrian government and international community to act swiftly to secure the release of abductees and restore trust in security institutions.

Analysts caution that unless the abductions are addressed, they risk undermining fragile coexistence between religious communities and further destabilizing Syria’s already tense social fabric.