The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), in coordination with the US-led International Coalition, announced the arrest of a high-ranking Islamic State (IS) operative during a targeted security operation in northeastern Syria’s Al-Hol Camp.

The detained individual, identified as Iraqi national Saleh Ali Salman Ali (also known as "Abu Khairallah" and "Abu Awab"), was a key IS security official who had participated in multiple battles against Iraqi forces before fleeing to Syria after the group’s territorial defeat.

According to an SDF statement, Ali entered Al-Hol Camp under the pretense of being a displaced refugee. Once inside, he allegedly resumed his role as an IS operative, recruiting young men and gathering intelligence on camp activities to assist the extremist group’s underground networks.

“This arrest was the result of a precise security operation,” the SDF said, emphasizing that Ali had been actively working to rebuild IS influence within the camp.

Al-Hol Camp, which houses over 60,000 people—including families of suspected IS fighters—has long been a hotspot for extremist activity. Despite IS losing its last territorial stronghold in 2019, sleeper cells continue to operate in both Syria and Iraq, with camps like Al-Hol serving as potential recruitment hubs.

The SDF, backed by the International Coalition, has intensified operations to dismantle these networks. “We will not allow any party to undermine the security and stability of our region,” the SDF statement affirmed.

The arrest highlights the lingering danger posed by IS remnants, even years after their military defeat. The SDF and Coalition forces remain vigilant, conducting frequent raids to prevent the group from regrouping.

As security operations continue, concerns persist over the camp’s conditions and the radicalization risks it poses. International observers have repeatedly called for improved management and repatriation efforts to mitigate long-term security threats.