Arrest and Intimidation Campaign in Al-Jouba Village, Rural Tartus
Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026 — approximately 10:00 PM
Location: Al-Jouba Village, Rural Tartus
Local sources report that a force of approximately 30 vehicles belonging to the so-called "General Security" stormed Al-Jouba village on the night of February 14, spreading panic and fear among residents.
What Happened
- The force entered suddenly and violently, deploying across the village streets and at its entrances.
- Members chanted sectarian slogans and incitement phrases; residents described the entry as "reminiscent of ISIS tactics."
- Phrases such as "You are infidels, you are Zoroastrians, it is forbidden that you live, and your offspring are forbidden" were directed at civilians.
- Homes were raided violently — doors broken open and properties searched without any legal warrants.
- Approximately 33 young men were detained and taken to an unknown location.
- An attempt was made to detain a 13-year-old boy before family members intervened, resulting in verbal and physical abuse against the family.
- Security elements remained deployed on rooftops and around the village perimeter.
- Residents were threatened and pressured to pay sums of money, hand over weapons they do not possess, and sign property sale deeds for their own land — with threats of a new campaign if demands were not met.
Alarming Implications
This incident reflects a clear pattern of:
- Arbitrary detention of civilians without legal basis
- Public sectarian incitement by armed security personnel
- Financial extortion and coerced property transfers
- Terrorizing civilians, including children and women
These actions raise serious concerns about an escalating wave of violations in the region, particularly given the complete absence of legal transparency and the fact that the fate of those detained remains unknown.
Western Syria Alliance
