The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), in cooperation with local security forces and the Women's Protection Units (YPJ), have arrested 39 individuals suspected of being ISIS mercenaries in Hasaka city, northeastern Syria. The arrests came as part of a large-scale, ongoing security operation launched early Friday, aimed at dismantling ISIS sleeper cells and preventing planned attacks on detention centers, Hawar News Agency (HNA) reported.
The joint security operation, involving the SDF, Internal Security Forces, and YPJ, commenced in the early morning hours across various neighborhoods in Hasaka, located in the Jazera Canton. Its primary objective was to target "sleeper cells affiliated with ISIS mercenaries who were preparing to carry out attacks against a detention center for mercenaries," according to earlier reports by HNA. In addition to the arrests, a quantity of weapons and ammunition was seized during the raids.
Later on Friday, the SDF Media Center announced via Telegram the commencement of a "large-scale combing campaign" in Hasaka. The statement emphasized that the operation targets "hideouts and cells of the terrorist organization ISIS in and around the city of Hasaka," including both sleeper and active cells.
Beyond thwarting immediate attacks, the campaign aims to "dismantle logistical support dens and thwart potential plots by the terrorist organization to target prisons and detention centers." The forces underscored that "the safety and security of civilians constitute the core objectives of the operation."
The SDF statement also revealed the participation of TOL military operations teams, providing "intelligence support" to ensure "high precision in targeting terrorist cells, and protect the lives of civilians." The SDF called on residents of Hasaka to "fully cooperate with our forces and report any suspicious activity," reiterating that their safety and security are the top priority.
The security operation remains ongoing across Hasaka city, with official results and further details expected to be released in subsequent statements. The intensified operations come as the SDF continues its efforts to eradicate ISIS remnants in Northeastern Syria.