The so-called “Syrian Network for Human Rights,” operating out by Turkey, has falsely claimed that three members of one family were killed in the village of Al-Qashla, southeast of Manbij, and attributed the crime to our forces. This systematic disinformation seeks to obscure the crimes committed by Turkish-backed mercenaries who were in control of the village at the time of the crime.
Ten days ago, and following our forces entered Al-Qashla and cleared it of the so-called “Al-Amshat” and “Al-Hamzat” mercenary groups, we discovered the bodies of three civilians—Muhammad Al-Khalil Al-Ayyoub, his wife, and their son, Suleiman. Investigations revealed that these individuals were executed by Turkish-backed mercenaries after resisting attempts to loot their home and property. This is just one of many atrocities committed by Turkish-backed groups in Manbij in recent days, which have included looting, robbery, kidnapping, and even raping. These crimes have been documented and published with residents providing video evidence.
The disinformation spread by the so-called “Syrian Network for Human Rights” enables the actual perpetrators to evade accountability. This biased reporting has ignored hundreds of crimes committed by Turkish-backed mercenary groups in Afrin, Manbij, and other areas, allowing these atrocities to continue unchecked. Such bias undermines victims’ rights to justice and accountability, perpetuating a cycle of violence and impunity.
SDF Media Center
January 2, 2024
