Security alert in Qatna after a clash with a drug smuggling gang near the Lebanese border.

An official source in the countryside of Damascus reported that a unit of the Internal Security Administration intercepted a large shipment of drugs coming from Lebanese territories towards villages in Mount Hermon. Based on precise intelligence, a well-planned ambush was set up for the gang responsible for the smuggling operation.

Upon the gang's arrival near the village of Aisam in Mount Hermon, an armed clash ensued for several minutes between the armed group and the security units, resulting in the martyrdom of an officer from the task force and the injury of two other individuals, one of whom was from the public security.

The clash also led to the arrest of two gang members, the confiscation of their weapons, and the seizure of the drugs in their possession, while security units continue to pursue the remaining gang members who fled.

Similarly, the city of Qatana and its surroundings witnessed a wide security alert, with an intensive deployment of heavily armed security forces as part of ongoing combing operations to track down fugitives and enhance security in the area.

The security source affirmed that the Internal Security units are continuing their mission to eliminate smuggling and criminal networks, and will not hesitate to confront any attempt that threatens the country's security and stability.