Syrian authorities reported that around 120 Islamic State detainees escaped from Shaddadi prison, triggering a major security operation as conflicting figures emerged about the true scale of the breakout.
However, Kurdish-linked sources claimed a far higher number, stating that nearly 1,500 Islamic State members managed to flee, raising serious concerns about regional security and militant regrouping.
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The Interior Ministry said Syrian army units and special forces swiftly entered Shaddadi, launching coordinated search and sweep operations across the town and surrounding areas to track fugitives.
Officials confirmed that security forces have already recaptured 81 escapees, while intensive efforts continue to arrest those still at large, with checkpoints tightened and patrols expanded.
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Earlier, the Syrian army accused the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces of responsibility, alleging that militants escaped from a prison previously under SDF control amid heightened tensions.
The incident comes after the SDF agreed to withdraw from Raqqa and Deir al-Zor following clashes with government forces, marking a major shift in control over key eastern regions.