Tensions Erupt in Syria's Coastal Alawite Heartland Following Officer's Killing

Incident Sparks Outrage in Latakia

In August 2015, Syria's coastal Alawite heartland was gripped by significant unrest following the killing of an air force officer, Colonel Hassan Sheikh. The incident, which occurred on August 7, 2015, in Latakia, involved Suleiman Hilal al-Assad, a first cousin once removed of then-President Bashar al-Assad. Reports indicated that the killing stemmed from a road rage incident after Sheikh's vehicle reportedly overtook Suleiman al-Assad's car on the road between Latakia city and Qardaha.

Alawite Community Protests, Demands Justice

The death of Colonel Sheikh ignited widespread outrage, particularly within the Alawite community, to which both the victim and the alleged perpetrator belonged. More than 1,000 people, predominantly Alawites, gathered in Latakia's al-Zaraa square for a sit-in, demanding justice and accountability. Protesters called for an end to the perceived impunity enjoyed by powerful figures and sought protection from abuses by elements often associated with pro-government militias, known as 'shabiha'.

The protests highlighted deeper grievances within the Alawite community, which had suffered significant casualties during the ongoing Syrian conflict. These demonstrations underscored a growing sentiment of disillusionment and a demand for the rule of law, even against those with close ties to the ruling family.

Government Responds Amidst Heightened Security

In response to the escalating tensions and public outcry, President Bashar al-Assad reportedly pledged to ensure that the perpetrator would be punished. Subsequently, Suleiman al-Assad was arrested and transferred to the appropriate authorities. In January 2016, a court in Latakia sentenced him to 20 years in prison for the murder of Colonel Hassan Sheikh.

During this period of heightened tension, pro-government gunmen, including security forces and loyalist militias such as the National Defense Forces (NDF) and 'shabiha', increased their presence in coastal Alawite areas. These deployments were seen as efforts to manage the unrest, maintain order, and address the grievances that had fueled the protests, reflecting the government's attempts to assert control and respond to internal pressures within its support base.