Syria’s Al-Ikhbariya TV announced the death of Sheikh Raed Al-Matni two days after being detained by the so-called “National Guard” affiliated with Druze spiritual leader Hikmat Al-Hijri, on accusations of collaborating with the Syrian government.

Local sources reported a wave of arrests targeting members of the Al-Matni family, as activists circulated a video showing signs of torture and the forced shaving of his beard.

Sweida has been experiencing rising tensions for weeks, with accusations that Al-Hijri is directing armed groups to target those opposing his policies and those advocating for the unity of Syrian territory.