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Violent Protests and Sit-ins Continue in Latakia
Protests continue for the third consecutive day in the schools of Latakia, along the Syrian coast, with massive demonstrations condemning the kidnapping of the child Muhammad Haidar. The protests have received widespread support from parents and residents in the area.
In the Al-Mashrou’ Al-Ashir neighborhood of Latakia, large demonstrations and sit-ins are ongoing, with protesters demanding the immediate disclosure of the child's whereabouts. Muhammad was kidnapped by unidentified gunmen four days ago while on his way to Jamil Dawood School, in front of witnesses and students, without any interference or attempts to save him or apprehend the kidnappers.
Despite the escalation of popular activism, security restrictions are being imposed. Local authorities forced students to attend school and limited demonstrations to prevent their continuation outside the Al-Mashrou’ Al-Ashir neighborhood, in an effort to contain the situation and prevent its expansion.
Meanwhile, the child's family continues to suffer, having received no information about his location or health condition. The relevant authorities are working to identify the kidnappers and determine the child's whereabouts amidst the deteriorating security situation in the city.
Four armed men in a blue “Santa Fe” vehicle carried out the kidnapping in front of witnesses, with nobody able to intervene, which further fueled anger and frustration among residents.
Given the repeated kidnapping incidents and the rising fears of worsening security, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights urges immediate intervention by the authorities to ensure Muhammad Haidar’s safety, restore order, and put an end to the escalating chaos that threatens the security and safety of residents in areas under Syrian government control.
