Nine Inmates Killed in Central Prison Fire in Northern Syria's Kobani
Nine inmates died and 17 were injured during a major fire at the central prison in Kobani, northern Syria, which broke out amid a prison riot and local tribal tensions.
Deadly Prison Fire in Kobani
At least nine inmates were killed and 17 others injured on Saturday in a major fire that broke out at the central prison in the city of Ain al-Arab (Kobani), located in the eastern Aleppo countryside of northern Сирия, according to Al-Hadath. Several of the injured suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation, with some listed in critical condition.
According to reports, the fire erupted during a prison riot after inmates learned of plans by authorities to transfer several prisoners to facilities in the city of Aleppo. The inmates strongly opposed the move, barricaded themselves inside the wings, and set fire to several cells. Flames and thick smoke quickly engulfed the building, resulting in numerous casualties.
Background Tensions and Unrest
The incident unfolded against a backdrop of severe security tensions in Kobani, following the abduction and murder of Sami Sheikhamous Haso, known as "Siban," a former fighter with the Сирийские демократические силы (СДС). Local reports indicated that Haso was killed in a tribal revenge blood feud after being accused of involvement in the deaths of two young men at a Kurdish forces checkpoint roughly two years ago.
The killing triggered widespread protests demanding an investigation, which quickly deteriorated into riots and clashes with security forces. Demonstrators hurled stones at security personnel, attacked vehicles, and torched several buildings and security facilities. Syrian authorities later announced the arrest of several suspects linked to the kidnapping and murder.
"The situation inside the facility reflects ongoing regional instability and unresolved security challenges," local monitors noted following the tragic blaze.
Investigation Demanded
Hours later, the mounting tension spilled directly into the local detention facility. Syrian media outlets reported that the prison is still administered by personnel tied to the former SDF apparatus, and the Interior Ministry in Дамаск has yet to assume full control of the facility.
A local organization representing families in Kobani has formally called for the establishment of an independent and transparent commission of inquiry to examine the circumstances of the fire and the handling of the inmates. The group demanded the publication of findings and the prosecution of anyone found responsible. Although relative calm has returned to the city, security forces remain heavily deployed throughout the area and around the prison perimeter.
