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Report by Al-Nahar: 74 Cases of Kidnapping of Women and Girls in Syria
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Disappearances and Mysteries in Syria: The Tragedy of Women and Children Amid Conflicts and Extremist Ideologies
Since the disappearance of Jouhina Shaaban Abdel Kareem and her daughter Silina Mahmoud Alnaqri in the Ghouta neighborhood of Homs, the grieving family has been living in a state of anxiety and confusion, surrounded by ambiguity, threats, and official neglect. These stories of disappearance are intertwined with thousands of documented and unknown cases, reflecting a scene of rights violations for women and children that makes uncovering the truth or ending this tragic phenomena increasingly difficult.
The family of Jouhina Shaaban Abdel Kareem continues their heartbreaking search for their daughter, who vanished after receiving a message alerting her to a sum of money she could withdraw. Since then, no news has been heard. According to close relatives, she tried to withdraw the amount before suddenly disappearing into the unknown. Repeatedly, suspicious calls and threats have been received, with the callers claiming to possess information—yet without clear evidence—while some family members have fallen victim to scams and exploitation.
Broadly speaking, a rights organization documented 74 cases of women and girls being kidnapped along the Syrian coast, 41 of whom have returned home so far. Others remain in an uncertain fate, under threats of classification or death. Official security agencies have shown reluctance, fueling fears of gangs involved in human trafficking and forced marriages.
Cases range from those who have returned voluntarily, like the girl Aml who was released after a ransom payment, to others suffering serious injuries or medical conditions. Stories of minors, such as "Maha," who was forced into marriage at just sixteen, highlight flagrant violations of laws and norms. These cases involve kidnapping and forced marriage of unwilling girls, with mysterious behind-the-scenes movements and accusations exchanged among parties involved.
Amid these complex stories and conflicting official narratives, regions under security and militia control witness cases of kidnapping. Families are often silenced and unsupported, and their pleas for justice and truth go unheard, as risks to their lives escalate for those daring to speak out.
On another front, there are suspicions about exploitation, with international reports hinting at the involvement of kidnapping in organ trafficking or political assassinations, with some security elements colluding with armed groups. This aggravates the tragic situation and emphasizes the urgent need for international intervention.
The fates of women and children remain suspended in darkness, amid increasing threats and dangers. This highlights the failure of justice, the shortcomings of official agencies, and ongoing violence against innocents. Meanwhile, the only hope for the grieving families is their voices—praying for truth to be uncovered. Who dares to raise their voice publicly? And what fate awaits those who dare to demand their rights in a country suffering from divisions and hardships?
