Syrian security forces launch operation against remnants of ousted Baath regime in south

DAMASCUS/ISTANBUL

Security forces aligned with Syria’s new government have launched an operation targeting remnants of the ousted Baath regime in the south of the country, security sources told Anadolu.

The General Security Forces initiated the operation against those who refused to surrender their weapons in Sanamayn in Daraa province.

Units from the Defense Ministry are also participating.

Clashes are ongoing in Sanamayn.

The General Security Forces had previously carried out operations in several provinces against former regime elements who refused to lay down arms following the fall of the Baath regime.

Bashar Assad, Syria’s leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8, ending the regime of the Baath Party, which had been in power since 1963.