Syria says ISIS cell dismantled in Deir ez-Zor, leader and members detained

DAMASCUS, Syria — Syria's Interior Ministry announced that a joint operation in the eastern countryside of Deir ez-Zor led to the capture of an ISIS cell leader and several members. The operation was carried out by the Internal Security and General Intelligence directorates based on intelligence and prior surveillance, according to the ministry. The ministry said clashes broke out after security forces reached the location but ended once the forces took control. The cell leader, identified as Abdul Fattah, attempted to use a hand grenade during the raid but was subdued and detained, the statement added. A child present in the house was wounded and taken to hospital. Another suspect, wanted in connection with participation in the security operations, was killed while trying to detonate a suicide vest, and Haydar Ja'dan al-Qasim was detained, the ministry said. Weapons, ammunition and explosive vests were seized during the operation. An initial investigation found the cell responsible for a series of attacks in the Baqouz and Sha'afe areas of the Deir ez-Zor district of Abu Kamal, including the killing of diplomatic security personnel during Eid al-Adha. The detainees are being interrogated ahead of their referral to judicial authorities, and the ministry said tracking of individuals suspected of providing logistical or financial support to the cell would continue.