After political change, citizens face dangers from unpatrolled streets as the new government grapples with security challenges.
**Syria's New Era: A Crisis of Safety and Security**
**Syria's New Era: A Crisis of Safety and Security**
Residents in Syria call for improved safety measures amidst rising kidnappings and a security void.
As the dust settles on the civil transition in Syria, a critical vacuum in governance has left citizens facing an alarming spike in crime, particularly kidnappings for ransom. When the rebel coalition ousted President Bashar al-Assad in December, the new government swiftly dismissed the existing police and security personnel, who had long been instruments of the oppressive regime. However, this abrupt removal has exposed the community to significant risks, as the establishment of new security measures has yet to match the urgency of the situation.
One harrowing account comes from Sami al-Izoo, whose brother, Abdulrazaq, was kidnapped shortly after the new government took power. Sami received a chilling ransom demand of $400,000 via text message just a week after witnessing six masked men snatch his brother away in a truck. Since then, his phone has been plagued with threats and harrowing videos showing Abdulrazaq in distress. "If I sell everything I have, I won’t reach that amount," he shared from his home in the suburb of Talbiseh near Homs.
The environment in Homs underscores a growing fear among residents. The insecurity following the dismissal of Assad-era police has them questioning the newfound freedoms that came at a steep price. Many call for increased security checkpoints and a more robust law enforcement presence to ensure their safety as they navigate unpatrolled streets after dark.
While the new government has undertaken steps to train and employ its own officials in law enforcement, it has not yet reached a level that can adequately protect the public. As the community looks towards the future, the ongoing crisis highlights a crucial need for balanced governance that ensures both freedom and safety for its citizens.
One harrowing account comes from Sami al-Izoo, whose brother, Abdulrazaq, was kidnapped shortly after the new government took power. Sami received a chilling ransom demand of $400,000 via text message just a week after witnessing six masked men snatch his brother away in a truck. Since then, his phone has been plagued with threats and harrowing videos showing Abdulrazaq in distress. "If I sell everything I have, I won’t reach that amount," he shared from his home in the suburb of Talbiseh near Homs.
The environment in Homs underscores a growing fear among residents. The insecurity following the dismissal of Assad-era police has them questioning the newfound freedoms that came at a steep price. Many call for increased security checkpoints and a more robust law enforcement presence to ensure their safety as they navigate unpatrolled streets after dark.
While the new government has undertaken steps to train and employ its own officials in law enforcement, it has not yet reached a level that can adequately protect the public. As the community looks towards the future, the ongoing crisis highlights a crucial need for balanced governance that ensures both freedom and safety for its citizens.
