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العربية
Residents of the city of Al-Bukamal in the eastern countryside of Deir Ezzor are expressing fears about the resurgence of militia activity along the Syrian-Iraqi border, amid growing concerns that smuggling routes once used during the reign of the former regime may be reactivated.
Despite significant efforts by government forces to secure the border, concerns persist due to the border’s long stretch and the difficulty of fully monitoring it. Addressing this issue requires substantial capabilities and direct cooperation with the Iraqi side.
Over the past ten years, the border has been exploited by militias involved in smuggling weapons and drugs. Reports have also documented their collaboration with Daesh, including transporting its members between the two countries in exchange for large sums of money.
Residents’ concerns are rooted in past experiences, when the area became a hub for illegal smuggling routes operated by militias or criminal gangs allied with the former regime. This activity even led to the establishment of unofficial border crossings, such as the Al-Sikka and Al-Jughayfa crossings.
Al-Bukamal residents hope the government will take the initiative to strengthen security measures and fully control the borders, in order to prevent militias and criminal groups from exploiting them for illicit activities that threaten the security and stability of the region.
