Syrian Government Takes Over SDF Prisons, Releases 1,500 Detainees
Key Takeaways
- Syria to take over YPG/SDF-run prisons in Hasakeh.
- About 1,500 detainees released from those prisons.
- Part of January 29 agreement between Damascus and the SDF.
Detainee Releases Begin
The Syrian government has begun implementing a comprehensive agreement with the SDF to return the detention file to state jurisdiction.
“The Syrian presidency announced the start of implementing a "comprehensive agreement" with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) that provides for returning the detention file in the east of the country to the jurisdiction of state institutions, through a dual path that includes releasing detainees and gradually handing over the prisons”
1,500 detainees have been released so far in four batches from SDF prisons.
Detention centers in Hasaka are on their way to come under the supervision of the Ministries of Justice and Interior.
The releases are without conditions, with a new batch expected next week.
About 500 detainees remain to be considered.
The ultimate goal is to absolve local forces of responsibility for detention centers completely.
Contested Control of Prisons
The handover of prisons has been marked by confusion and violence.
The SDF accused factions affiliated with Damascus of attacking Al-Aqtan prison.
Damascus accused the SDF of freeing jihadist detainees from Al-Chaddadeh.
At least a hundred IS fighters escaped from prisons in northeastern Syria.
American estimates put the number of escapes at about 200 fighters, the SDF put it at 1,500.
The European Union said it was extremely concerned by these escapes.
IS Escape and Security Vacuum
The transfer occurred amid a rapid government offensive that pushed the SDF to cede territory.
“The Syrian government is preparing to take control of the YPG-run prisons, with more detainees released over the weekend and Monday”
The rushed transition dismantled a proven guard system.
The Syrian army launched a rapid offensive on January 13.
The ongoing American withdrawal worsened the security vacuum.
The White House was weighing a full withdrawal of the roughly 800 to 1,000 soldiers still deployed.
Political and Social Dimensions
The detainee releases are part of a broader process of integration into the Syrian state.
The presidential team emphasized strengthening trust among Syrian society.
The January 29 agreement remains in effect.
Estimates had suggested thousands of detainees in SDF prisons.
The ultimate goal is to end any detention outside official legal frameworks.
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