Jordanian forces clash with smuggling groups at Syrian border Four killed

Jordanian border forces clashed with armed smuggling groups attempting to cross the northern border from Syria into Jordan on March 6.

According to a statement from the Jordanian Armed Forces, confrontation resulted in the deaths of four smugglers, with the remaining individuals retreating into Syrian territory, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The smugglers had attempted to take advantage of poor weather and dense fog to breach the border, but Jordanian forces swiftly applied engagement rules to prevent their infiltration.

A significant amount of narcotics and weapons were seized during the operation, though the exact quantity of drugs has not been disclosed. The seized items were handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.

This incident comes after Jordan and Syria established a joint security committee in January to enhance border security, combat arms and drug smuggling, and address the threat posed by ISIS militants.

Western anti-narcotics officials have long reported that captagon, an addictive amphetamine-type stimulant, is produced in large quantities in Syria and trafficked through Jordan to Gulf states.

Since 2023, Jordan's army has carried out several pre-emptive airstrikes in Syria, targeting militias linked to the drug trade and their facilities.

By Aghakazim Guliyev