Syrian troops, army defectors clash; 4 killed

London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says three soldiers, one civilian killed Tuesday in fighting in the region of Jabal al-Zawiya
Associated Press

Activists said at least four people have been killed in clashes between Syrian troops and army defectors in the country’s northwest.

 

 

The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that three soldiers and one civilian were killed Tuesday in fighting in the region of Jabal al-Zawiya.

 

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Activists also reported clashes elsewhere.

 

 

The Local Coordination Committees, an activist network, said defectors attacked an army checkpoint in the southern village of Dael, wounding one officer.

 

 

 

Syria-based rights activist Mustafa Osso said government troops also were conducting military operations in the central town of Talbiseh.

 

 

Syria’s six-month opposition movement has focused on peaceful demonstrations, although recently there have been reports of protesters taking up arms to defend themselves against military attacks.