Syrian internal security forces have dismantled an Islamic State cell operating west of Raqqa, killing its leader and arresting several members during a series of pre-dawn raids. The operation followed two recent attacks on a security checkpoint that left four personnel dead, prompting intensified security measures in the area.

According to local security officials, forces seized weapons and ammunition during the raids and detained four suspects, while two militants, including the cell leader, were killed. Authorities said sweep operations are ongoing, with reinforced measures at checkpoints and security posts to prevent further attacks.

The Islamic State once controlled large areas of Syria and Iraq after declaring a 'caliphate' in 2014, but subsequent military campaigns stripped the group of most of its territory, including Raqqa. Despite these losses, sleeper cells remain active and continue to carry out deadly attacks in the region, where United States troops are deployed as part of efforts to combat the group.