Syrian army extends campaign around Jisr al-Shughour

Posted on 6/13/2011 at 5:33 PM - Link

Syria says its forces are pursuing rebels through the countryside around Jisr al-Shughour, after consolidating control over the northern town.

Witnesses say the military is pursuing a "scorched earth" strategy in the area, destroying houses and crops.

Activists say many villagers have been detained and at least 10 shot dead by army snipers.

Hundreds of Syrians have been massing on the border with Turkey, preparing to cross over if the army advances.

Turkey has already taken in thousands of refugees.

Syrian military sources have told the BBC that "armed men" who fled from Jisr al-Shughour to the town of Maarat al-Numan would be dealt with in a military operation in the next few days.

Protests against President Bashar al-Assad, who succeeded his father Hafez in 2000, began in mid-March and have spread across the country.

Human rights groups say at least 1,300 people have been killed in the crackdown.