Syrian forces recapture 81 escaped Daesh detainees after SDF prison release
Syria's Interior Ministry announced that army and security units have apprehended 81 of the 120 Daesh detainees who were reportedly released by the SDF from a prison in al-Shaddadi, Hasakah province.
Syrian Interior Ministry announced on Tuesday that government forces have recaptured 81 of the 120 Daesh detainees allegedly released by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) from a prison in al-Shaddadi in northeastern Hasakah province. The ministry stated that following the escape, Syrian Army and special operations units entered al-Shaddadi and conducted extensive search operations, with efforts ongoing to locate the remaining fugitives.
Accusations Against the SDF
In earlier statements, the ministry blamed the “YPG/SDF terrorist organization” for the prison release, an allegation that adds to existing tensions between Damascus and the Kurdish-led forces. The incident occurred amid a fragile implementation of a ceasefire and integration agreement announced on Sunday by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, under which the SDF is to withdraw east of the Euphrates and transfer administrative and security control of Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor provinces to the Syrian state.
Context of the Ceasefire and Integration Deal
The agreement, reached after a Syrian Army offensive retook large areas in eastern and northeastern Syria, outlines the integration of SDF military and security personnel into Syrian state ministries after vetting, as well as the handover of border crossings, oil fields, and civilian institutions. The prison break in al-Shaddadi—an area recently affected by shifting frontlines—threatens to undermine trust during this delicate transition and highlights the persistent security challenges in post-Daesh detention facilities.
Security Implications and Ongoing Operations
The recapture of most escapees demonstrates the Syrian government’s rapid deployment capability in areas recently brought under its control. However, the episode underscores the risks of destabilization posed by unsecured detention centers holding Daesh affiliates, especially in regions where authority is being transferred. It also amplifies long-standing Damascus accusations that the SDF has been an unreliable partner in counterterrorism, a narrative the government uses to justify its military and political consolidation in the northeast.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.