Two members of the Internal Security forces in Homs (central Syria) were wounded, one wanted suspect was neutralized, and another was arrested during an armed clash with a gang accused of theft and armed robbery in al-Waer neighborhood in Homs city.

The clash broke out during a security operation carried out by specialized units against the cell. The operation also led to the recovery of stolen money found in the gang members’ possession. At the same time, searches continue for the remaining suspects involved, according to a statement published by Internal Security in Homs late Friday, June 26.

The Internal Security Command in Homs had earlier said that the gunfire heard in the neighborhood was linked to the operation, stressing that the situation was under control and did not warrant concern.

The command also called on residents to stay away from the site for their safety, rely on official channels for news, and avoid circulating rumors.

Three Military Police Members Wounded

On June 23, three members of the Military Police forces affiliated with the Ministry of Defense were wounded, one of them critically, after an exchange of fire in Homs city.

The Homs Media Directorate said the injuries occurred during a “clash with a wanted security suspect” in al-Murayjah neighborhood in Homs, adding that “forces continue to pursue those involved.”

For its part, the Internal Security Command in Homs governorate said that while a Military Police patrol was carrying out an arrest warrant issued by the Military Public Prosecution in al-Murayjah neighborhood in Homs city, the patrol came under armed attack.

Internal Security forces are continuing to pursue those involved in the attack before referring them to the competent judiciary, with further details to be announced later, according to the command’s statement.

Security Tension

The incidents came a week after security tension in Palmyra (Homs governorate), on June 15, when eight people were wounded in local confrontations that broke out in the city after a demonstration in the public square escalated into broader security tension, according to the Homs Media Directorate.

Homs governorate confirmed on June 16 that calm had returned to Palmyra after the tension and confrontations that followed what it described as provocative attacks on a demonstration, which included random gunfire and mutual stone throwing, causing injuries and material damage, according to its account.

The governorate said in a statement that security forces intervened immediately to contain the situation, restore stability, and protect residents and property, while legal measures continued against those involved.

Governor Murhaf al-Naasan pledged at the time that the rights of victims are a firm obligation of the state, leading to the achievement of transitional justice.

He stressed that the rule of law, security, and stability are the guarantees for achieving justice and holding perpetrators of violations accountable.

Since the beginning of the current year, Homs city has witnessed sporadic security incidents that have claimed the lives of dozens of civilians.