In the eastern countryside of Aleppo, particularly near the 'Aroufi' silos close to the city of Ain al-Arab (Kobani), a horrific massacre was reportedly committed against dozens of prisoners detained by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Survivors and relatives of victims have shared alarming accounts that indicate over 60 prisoners were executed in a brutal manner and that many of their bodies were so disfigured that they could only be identified through unique tattoos or other distinguishing marks. This massacre raises serious concerns about human rights violations and the treatment of prisoners in the region.

According to a report from Syria Now correspondent Bahaa Halabi, testimonies from witnesses reveal that the prisoners were shot dead and subjected to severe torture, making it difficult for their families to recognize them despite having been able to obtain papers declaring their release. One mother shared her distressing account, describing how she had been visiting the SDF court for days in anticipation of her son’s release after learning he had completed his sentence.

The situation in Ain al-Arab highlights the ongoing tensions and brutality faced by detainees in conflict zones, further complicating the humanitarian crisis in northern Syria. This horrific event casts a shadow over the credibility of the SDF, and calls for urgent international attention and intervention to ensure accountability and prevent further atrocities in such volatile areas.