Rising Security Tensions in Afrin Countryside: Violent Incidents and Arrests Raise Residents’ Concerns

Background of the Events
The village of Juwayq/Jouqa, affiliated with the “Olive Branch” area in the Afrin countryside north of Aleppo, is witnessing increasing tension due to a series of security incidents that occurred over the past two months, directly affecting the daily lives of the residents.

From a Financial Dispute to Family Clashes
The tension began on August 1st when a young man from the village was seriously injured after being shot by a member of a family linked to a local faction, following a financial dispute. Weeks later, on September 4th, the incidents escalated again when a child with special needs was targeted while passing through one of the village streets, accompanied by threats to his family not to leave their home, causing widespread outrage among the residents.

Clashes and Field Escalation
The tensions later turned into a collective confrontation between village residents and other families close to the factions, during which sticks and knives were used, and gunfire was fired into the air to instill fear among civilians.

Security Reinforcements and Arrests
In response, the “Public Security” forces deployed significant reinforcements consisting of about 50 personnel and several military vehicles, conducting an arrest campaign that detained 10 young men from the village on charges of weapon possession. Meanwhile, no actions were taken against the families affiliated with the factions involved in the events, which further heightened the tensions.

Public Concern Over Escalation
The following day, 4 detainees were released, while 6 others remain in custody. Residents fear the continuation of the arrest policy or renewed clashes, amid the absence of fundamental solutions to end the ongoing security chaos that the area has been experiencing for years.