# Espionage network arrests in Idlib

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/espionage-network-arrests-in-idlib
> Updated: 2026-09-17T23:43:39.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

In Idlib, internal security forces and the Counter-Terrorism Directorate announced the arrest of a second security cell linked to an espionage and sabotage network associated with the former regime. 

Brigadier General Ghassan Bakir, commander of internal security in Idlib, stated that the operation followed precise monitoring and surveillance. This follows the dismantling of an initial network in June that was reportedly involved in photographing military sites and providing coordinates to the previous regime for targeting operations. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the cell's activities.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-17: Syrian authorities arrest cell leader after security deaths in Daraa

Syrian authorities arrested a cell leader in Daraa province following a clash that killed three security force members during an operation to dismantle an Islamic State sleeper cell.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/syrian-authorities-arrest-cell-leader-after-security-deaths-in-daraa

### 2026-09-06: Idlib security forces arrest second cell linked to former regime spy network

Security forces in Idlib, Syria, have arrested a second security cell linked to a former regime espionage and sabotage network.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/idlib-security-forces-arrest-second-cell-linked-to-former-regime-spy-network

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Cite as: Espionage network arrests in Idlib. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/espionage-network-arrests-in-idlib