22 Sep 2022 | 02:23 PM UTC
Syria: Explosion reported in Afrin's Raju Street Sept. 22
Explosion reported in Afrin, Syria, Sept. 22. Increased security likely. Avoid the area.
Event
An explosion was reported in Afrin's Raju Street, Aleppo Governorate, Sept. 22. A bomb inside a motorcycle reportedly caused the blast. The blast reportedly wounded at least four people. There have been no immediate claims of responsibility for the attack.
Increased security measures are likely near the affected area as authorities investigate the incident. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible near the incident site.
Afrin is located approximately 40 km (25 miles) northwest of Aleppo city.
Context
Turkey has attributed similar attacks in the region to the Syrian People's Protection Units (YPG). Ankara views the YPG as a militant group linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) based in Turkey. Several car bombings have occurred in areas along the Turkish-Syrian border since Turkey launched a military offensive into northeastern Syria in October 2019. The Islamic State (IS) has also claimed responsibility for some attacks. Turkey's military presence in northern Syria will likely lead to further attacks in the future.
Advice
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Plan for localized ground travel and business disruptions. Heed the advice of security personnel.