Daraa Al-Balad Crisis Nears End As Syrian Army Solidifies Its Presence There (Videos, Photos)

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On September 8 afternoon, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) began working to establish permanent positions inside the southern part of Daraa city, known as Daraa al-Balad.

The army will establish at least nine positions in Daraa al-Balad under the August 31 reconciliation agreement that was brokered by Russia. Most of the positions will be located in the heart of the area.

The SAA entered Daraa al-Balad in the morning. Forces from the Russian Military Police and the 8^th Brigade, a unit of the 5^th Corps that is dedicated for former rebels in Daraa, facilitated the deployment of the army.

Upon entering the area, where more than 100 wanted gunmen were holding out, the SAA launched a combing operation. Several hideouts were uncovered and a number of explosive devices were blown up by the army.

The army also opened the main route leading to Daraa al-Balad, allowing hundreds of civilians who were displaced as a result of the recent events to return to their homes.

As for now, more than 900 gunmen in Daraa al-Balad have handed over their weapons and joined the reconciliation process. Those who refuse the agreement will be deported to opposition-held areas in northern Syria.

Once the reconciliation agreement is fulfilled by all parties, the crisis in Daraa al-Balad, which erupted more than two months ago, will be over.

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