As part of the current efforts to impose control over the border, the Border Security Department launched an extensive campaign in Hawik to close all smuggling points for weapons and drugs, the Press Office of the Governorate of Homs said in a statement released by the media.

The Department reported that the operation included raiding the village located near the city of Qusseir west of Homs, to pursue militants and drug traffickers operating on both sides of the borders, in addition to limiting illegal activities that negatively affect the people of the two neighboring countries.

Syrian forces used armoured vehicles, drones and heavy weapons in their operations. During the clashes, several persons wanted for their involvement in illegal smuggling, were arrested and large quantities of weapons were seized.

Lebanon and Syria share a 330-kilometer border, much of which is unmarked, especially in the north-east of the country, making it an easy area for smugglers and even refugees crossing.

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