The killing of 4 in Sweida has renewed concerns over security conditions in southern Syria, after a shooting incident left four civilians dead and another seriously wounded.
Syrian authorities announced the arrest of an internal security officer suspected of involvement in the incident.
An official investigation has been launched to determine responsibility and clarify the circumstances of the shooting.
Shooting incident in Metouna village
According to Syria’s Interior Ministry, the shooting occurred in the village of Metouna in the countryside of Sweida province.
The head of internal security in Sweida, Hossam al‑Tahan, described the incident as a serious crime targeting five local residents.
Four of the victims were killed at the scene, while a fifth sustained critical injuries.
Arrest of an internal security officer
Al‑Tahan said preliminary investigations, conducted in cooperation with one of the survivors, indicated that one of the suspects is an officer affiliated with the Internal Security Directorate in the area.
He confirmed that the officer was immediately arrested and referred for investigation to complete legal procedures.
The official stressed that any violation against civilians is unacceptable and that accountability will apply regardless of affiliation.
Syrian Observatory account
Earlier, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the victims were shot while working in olive harvesting in Metouna village.
The Observatory said the group had obtained prior approval from internal security forces to access agricultural land in the area.
It added that the village is located in northern Sweida countryside and is under government control.
Security context in Sweida
Sweida province, a stronghold of Syria’s Druze minority, has experienced ongoing instability in recent months.
Starting on July 13, clashes erupted between Druze armed groups and Bedouin fighters, later escalating after the intervention of government forces and allied tribal fighters.
A ceasefire took effect on July 20, but tensions have remained high and access to the province has been difficult.
Displacement and humanitarian situation
Local residents have accused the government of imposing a siege on Sweida, an allegation denied by Damascus.
Humanitarian aid convoys have entered the province since the ceasefire, according to official statements.
The Syrian Observatory reported that more than 185,000 people from over 30 villages remain displaced, sheltering in schools in Sweida city or other locations converted into temporary shelters.
Conclusion:
The killing of 4 in Sweida highlights the fragile security situation in the province despite ceasefire agreements. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and have pledged accountability to prevent similar incidents in the future.
