Dara'a locals fight drug dealers head-on

April marked a dark turn, witnessing over nine individuals targeted in that month alone.

The exact distribution of the remaining 10 attacks over the following three months remains unclear, as some statistics lack background details. These attacks vary in methods, ranging from targeting dealers on the move to forcefully entering residences and shooting the individuals directly.

The assassinations have not only targeted civilians involved in the drug trade but also pro-regime militia members engaged in illicit activities. These militias are directly affiliated with various state military bodies and security agencies, including the Military Intelligence, Air Intelligence, State Intelligence, and the Fourth Armored Division, led by Maher al-Assad, the president's brother.

Fayez Al-Radi, a militia commander associated with military intelligence and actively involved in drug trafficking, is among the prominent figures targeted.

In at least one incident, the attacks targeted drug-related facilities linked to Iran-backed militias. A location reportedly used for manufacturing and coordinating drug smuggling operations to Jordan and the Gulf was struck by unknown individuals using three RPG shells near the Zizon village.

Growing public frustration

Local sources link the violent anti-drug attacks to growing public frustration. Residents are increasingly concerned about the safety of their families, fearing the high level of criminal activities and violence driven by addiction.

Stories of easily accessible drugs, even among underage individuals on the streets and inside schools, are frequently cited.

The public's anger is further fuelled by the lack of official efforts to end the illicit trade. Despite the rhetoric, the regime reportedly has not taken significant action against those involved in the drug industry, with prominent drug networks enjoying protection from the regime's security and military bodies.

This cooperation, driven by financial and political gains, remains intact, despite regional normalisation efforts with Damascus.

Former opposition armed groups face criticism for not doing enough to stop drug dealers despite public knowledge. Notably, the Eighth Brigade, primarily composed of former opposition fighters now operating under the regime's umbrella, launched an anti-drug campaign in Dara'a's eastern region in March.

However, the crackdown quickly lost momentum after skirmishes with some drug dealers, leading some to suspect pressure from the regime.

Others view the campaign as a pretext to settle scores with leaders or militia groups involved in drugs, citing the lack of action against more prominent drug dealers, such as Imad Zuraiq, a militia leader affiliated with military intelligence.

The authorities' tolerance toward drug industry groups has reportedly prompted locals to take matters into their own hands. Many in Dara'a have access to arms and the skills to use them, especially those who were involved in military activities in the past. The only thing missing was a decision to take action.

While this theory is appealing, other actors may be responsible for some attacks. Rival drug dealers, particularly those who previously clashed over influence or disputes, could be involved in these attacks to eliminate competitors. Former opposition armed groups currently affiliated with the regime could also be orchestrating some of these attacks.

Resorting to hit-and-run operations instead of direct confrontations could be their way of circumventing the protection provided by the regime to these drug dealers. The involvement of ISIS and, to a lesser extent, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham affiliates cannot be entirely ruled out.

The delicate balance of power and financial gains within Dara'a, coupled with a history of assassinations, has made drug dealers seemingly impervious to danger. Armed and confident, they continue their illicit trade, unfazed by the risks involved.

Therefore, these assassinations will only add another layer of complexity and further escalate the ongoing violence in the southern region.