Baghdad police patrol the streets in a security operation
Intercepted 'leaving the country'
Baghdad police arrest Syrian national over alleged ‘terrorist propaganda’ and sectarian incitement
BAGHDAD — Baghdad police announced Sunday the arrest of a Syrian national accused of promoting terrorist organizations and inciting sectarianism on social media. Authorities said the suspect had been planning to leave the country before security forces intercepted him.
“Under the supervision and monitoring of the Baghdad Rusafa police chief, and based on intelligence and electronic surveillance, officers from the Zafaraniya Police Department and Zafaraniya Emergency Patrols, in coordination with other security agencies, arrested a Syrian national identified as A.A.A.,” the Baghdad Police Command said in a statement.
Police said the suspect used Facebook to promote “terrorist organizations and spread sectarian propaganda,” adding, “He admitted outright to publishing these posts.” Although his residency permit was valid, he was reportedly preparing to travel when the operation thwarted his escape. He remains in custody pending legal proceedings.
The arrest comes as Syria’s coastal regions, home to a majority Alawite population, have seen heightened tensions and ongoing clashes for several days. Armed groups loyal to President Bashar Assad attacked government forces in Jableh and Latakia on March 6, sparking clashes and mass killings, according to the Syrian Observatory. The group reported 745 Alawite civilians killed, calling it “ethnic cleansing.” The overall death toll has reached 1,018, with many Alawites fleeing to Russia-controlled Hmeimim airbase.
