Calm has returned to the southern neighborhoods of Homs, with the Internal Security Forces extending the curfew until 5:00 PM Monday in several areas of the city. The curfew was imposed after a double murder in Zaydal sparked violence.
SANA reporter in Homs confirmed that southern neighborhoods of the city are witnessing calm, while security forces continue to reinforce their presence to ensure stability.
The curfew affects the neighborhoods of Al-Abbassiya, Al-Armen, Al-Muhajireen, Al-Zahra, Al-Nuzha, Al-Ikrima, Al-Nazihin, Ashira, Zaydal, Karm Al-Zaytoun, Karm Al-Louz, Al-Weroud, and the Police Housing district. Authorities have urged residents to comply with the curfew for their safety and to aid the ongoing investigation.
The curfew was initially imposed on Sunday after the bodies of a man and his wife were discovered in their Zaydal home, both victims of a violent murder. Sectarian messages found at the crime scene raised concerns that the incident might provoke sectarian tensions in the region.
In a statement to Al-Ikhbariya, Ministry of Interior spokesperson Nour El-Din Al-Baba clarified that no material evidence yet links the crime to sectarian motives. He noted that the slogans at the scene were likely intended to mislead investigators and incite strife.
He warned against the spread of fabricated stories on social media, urging citizens to rely on official sources for information.
Health Update: 18 Injured in Random Shootings
Dr. Abdul Karim Ghali, Director of Health in Homs, confirmed that hospitals received the bodies of the two victims, Abdullah Al-Aboud Al-Nasser Al-Khalidi and his wife, as well as 18 injuries, most from random gunfire.
Security Deployment to Prevent Escalation
In response to the violence, Internal Security Forces have deployed throughout Homs to maintain order, protect property, and prevent further sectarian escalation.
The victims’ family emphasized their rejection of using this tragedy to stir sectarian conflict and reiterated their commitment to legal avenues for justice.