Media: Syrian troops attacked in Latakia, one killed, two wounded

A Syrian security forces patrol was ambushed in Latakia, resulting in one death and two injuries.

The attack, attributed to armed supporters of former president Bashar al-Assad, took place near the town of Al-Haffa in Latakia province, Caliber.Az reports, citing SANA news agency.

The patrol, part of the Department of Public Security, was struck by the ambush as it was in the area, with one security personnel killed and two others wounded. 

Note that, Syria's interim government has deployed reinforcements to the country's northwest coastal cities, where intense clashes between security forces and fighters loyal to former leader Bashar al-Assad have claimed hundreds of lives, including many civilians. This violence poses the most significant challenge to the new government's authority since it took power after al-Assad's removal in December 2024.

On March 8, security forces reported regaining control over much of the Tartous and Latakia governorates, where Assad loyalists launched coordinated attacks on checkpoints and military positions. In response, a large number of people reportedly sought revenge, leading to individual violations, according to an unnamed security official. A curfew remains in effect in these areas, which are home to al-Assad's Alawite sect, his longstanding support base.

Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa called for fighters to surrender, vowing to bring the remnants of the old regime to justice. Although clashes eased by Saturday afternoon, skirmishes continued, and the rising death toll has been described as a tragedy. UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen expressed alarm, urging all parties to exercise restraint and protect civilians in line with international law to avoid further destabilisation.

By Aghakazim Guliyev