Violence Reported Against Civilians in Western Homs Countryside

Violence Reported Against Civilians in Western Homs Countryside
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Reports from western Homs Province in Syria indicate a recent escalation of violence against civilians, including shootings, arbitrary detentions and alleged kidnappings, amid rising sectarian tensions.

Local sources said a young man, identified as Adnan Subhi Kreish, was shot dead by armed individuals while working in farmland near the village of Al-Mazraa, west of Homs city. Residents described the incident as having a sectarian dimension.

In a separate case, 60-year-old Mohamed Hammoud was reportedly detained at the Al-Hashmah checkpoint while traveling with his family. His whereabouts remain unknown.

Activists also reported that armed groups from the Teldo area entered the village of Al-Ghawr al-Gharbi, carrying out arrests and kidnappings of several civilians, including Saeed Jardo, Hassan Kreish and Hafiz Samru. Women accompanying them were also reportedly detained.

Additionally, cemeteries used by the Shia community in the villages of Al-Mazraa and Al-Hamidiyah were vandalized, further heightening fear and anger among residents.

The incidents come amid broader sectarian tensions in Homs Province. Local residents have called on authorities and international actors to intervene to protect civilians, reveal the fate of detainees, and hold those responsible accountable, warning of risks to social stability if the violence continues.