Syria takes control of Al-Aqtan prison from SDF in Raqqa

On January 23, the Syrian Ministry of Interior announced that it had assumed control of al-Aqtan Prison in Raqqa province, previously managed by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

In a statement on its official Telegram channel, the ministry said its Directorate of Prisons had taken over management of the facility and immediately launched a full review of inmates’ conditions and legal files.

Each case is being examined individually to ensure proper legal procedures are followed.

Specialised teams from the Counter-Terrorism Directorate and other authorities have also been deployed to secure the prison and maintain internal order.

The ministry emphasised its commitment to human rights and the rule of law, stating that it will systematically oversee all aspects of prison management to serve the public interest and enhance security.

Major General Abdelkader Tahan, Deputy Minister of Interior, conducted a tour of the prison alongside senior security officials following the takeover.

Tahan inspected prison conditions, detainee management, and security measures, highlighting the importance of compliance with legal regulations and ongoing monitoring in line with humanitarian standards.

On January 19, the SDF reported clashes with Syrian government forces near al-Aqtan, warning that the government’s takeover of the prison “could have serious security consequences, undermining stability and potentially allowing a return of chaos and terrorism.”

The transfer of Islamic State prisoners by the U.S. comes amid the swift collapse of Kurdish-led forces in northeastern Syria. Concerns over prison security escalated after around 200 low-level IS fighters escaped from Shaddadi prison on January 20, although Syrian government forces later recaptured many of them.

By Aghakazim Guliyev