Violent clashes broke out in the village of Khirbet al-Ma’za, located in the southern countryside of Tartous, resulting in the deaths of 14 Public Security Forces personnel and three militants, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
Ambush Sparks Deadly Violence
The incident began when a General Security Forces patrol under the Military Operations Department attempted to apprehend Muhammad Kanjo Hassan, a former regime officer. The operation faced stiff resistance from Hassan’s supporters and local armed men, escalating into a deadly ambush and violent confrontations.
In its statement, SOHR detailed, “14 members of the Public Security Forces were killed in clashes with gunmen in the village of Khirbet al-Ma’za in the southern countryside of Tartous. Three militants were also killed, in addition to injuries on both sides.”
Military Reinforcements and Ongoing Clashes
Following the ambush, the Military Operations Department deployed reinforcements to apprehend the militants. Clashes between the security forces and local gunmen intensified, leading to further casualties and the destruction of a General Security Forces vehicle, which was set ablaze during the skirmishes.
Background of the Wanted Officer
Muhammad Kanjo Hassan, the officer targeted in the operation, previously held positions as Director of the Military Justice Department and Head of the Field Court. His followers, along with armed villagers, resisted the operation, forcing the patrol to retreat initially before engaging in prolonged clashes.
Diplomatic and Political Context
The incident comes amid a period of significant political change in Syria. Earlier in December, opposition forces seized control of Damascus, ending President Bashar al-Assad’s 13-year regime. Vice President Farouk al-Sharaa has since assumed control, forming a caretaker government for three months.
Additionally, diplomatic relations are shifting, with Qatar recently reopening its embassy in Damascus and advocating for the lifting of sanctions on Syria.