War crimes continue to escalate in the attacks launched by HTS and paramilitary groups affiliated with Turkey against Kurds and Syriacs in the neighbourhoods of Şêxmaqsûd (Sheikh Maqsoud), Eşrefiye (Ashrafieh) and Benî Zêd (Bani Zed) in Aleppo on 6 January. According to data from the United Nations (UN) Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, in the city where 120 thousand people have fled due to the attacks, the homes and workplaces of those who left their homes were looted, and Kurdish families who could not leave Aleppo were abducted. 

 

According to data from human rights organisations in the region, at least 500 people have been abducted in Aleppo, and it is noted that this number could be higher. It is recorded that the looting and abductions are being carried out primarily by paramilitary groups such as Hemzat, Emşat, Nureddin Zengi, and Sultan Murad, which are under Turkey's control and operate within the HTS. 

 

KIDNAPPINGS AND LOOTING ARE TAKING PLACE

 

According to a report by Hawar News Agency (ANHA) based on sources, a group of Kurdish residents living in the Eşrefiye neighbourhood were abducted during on-going house raids and taken to unknown locations.

 

According to the Efrîn Human Rights Organisation, the looting of people's property has begun in the neighbourhoods, with reports of looting occurring on many streets in Şêxmeqsûd, particularly on 20th Street near the Martyr Koli Junction, Badino Street, 15th Street, and the street opposite the Şekato Intelligence Office. It was stated that paramilitary groups entered shops and looted furniture, electrical appliances and all other items inside.

 

HEALTH AND ELECTRICITY RESTRICTED

 

In addition to the attacks and looting, electricity and health issues in the neighbourhoods have reached quite serious levels, with electricity being provided for only 2 hours a day and many health centres being destroyed.