In brief
Recently, a surge in kidnappings in Syria has left residents feeling more vulnerable than ever, as many demand better protection from the new government’s security forces, which are still finding their footing.
As the new government took control following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, many citizens found the streets to be less safe. Just ten days after seeing his brother abducted, Sami al-Izoo received a ransom demand of $400,000 through a series of text messages. His brother, Abdulrazaq al-Izoo, was kidnapped by six masked men and later appeared in a video pleading for help, his hands bound and a bag over his head. Sami, who lives in Talbiseh, a suburb of Homs, has struggled to find the funds, selling personal possessions but still uncertain if he can meet the demands.The surge in kidnappings, including Sami's brother's case, is attributed to the newly established government’s decision to disband existing police forces associated with Assad's regime. Although the idea aimed to eliminate oppressive practices, it has left a significant security void. The transitional authorities have attempted to fill the gap by appointing their own members to key positions and training new police officers; however, many residents believe that these measures are insufficient in keeping them safe against the backdrop of rampant crime.The plight faced by families like the al-Izoos illustrates a pressing need in Syria for more robust security measures, with locals increasingly questioning the ability of the new government to restore a sense of safety and order in their lives.
