For a long period, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), led by Kurds in Rojava (Northeast Syria), managed nearly 28 camps and prisons holding ISIS detainees.

This control was maintained with blood and sacrifice until a dramatic turning point when the United States and its allies withdrew support from the Kurds of Rojava. As a result, many ISIS prisoners escaped, and some camps and prisons were abandoned or handed over to armed groups loyal to Damascus.

10,000 ISIS Fighters and 40,000 Families

According to unofficial statistics, across all camps and prisons in Rojava, there are about 40,000 ISIS families and children and 10,000 fighters and suspects. They come from 50 to 74 different nationalities, including French, German, Belgian, and Dutch citizens.

Overview of ISIS Camps and Prisons in Rojava

• 28 camps and prisons
• 40,000 women and children
• 10,000 fighters
• 50–75 different nationalities

Al‑Hol Camp

Located in eastern Hasakah countryside, Al‑Hol is described as a “ticking time bomb.” It holds about 25,000 ISIS women, children, and fighters:

• 15,000 Syrians
• 4,000 Iraqis
• 6,000 foreigners from various countries

The camp became a humanitarian disaster zone. Under the administration of Ahmed al-Sharaa, the SDF struggled to maintain control, leading to mass escapes. Many detainees remain radicalized, raising fears of future instability.

Gweiran Prison

Situated inside Hasakah city, Gweiran is one of the largest and most dangerous prisons. It holds 4,000–5,000 ISIS fighters, mostly Syrians and Iraqis, but also detainees from 60 foreign countries. The prison is still under SDF control.

Shaddadi Prison

One of the oldest prisons, built at the start of ISIS’s collapse, located in southern Hasakah countryside. It held about 1,500 ISIS fighters. After attacks by Damascus‑aligned armed groups, the SDF announced the prison was emptied and all detainees escaped. Later, Damascus authorities claimed to have re‑arrested 81 ISIS fighters.

Roj Camp

Located in northern Hasakah province, Roj Camp holds about 2,500 ISIS women and children. It remains under SDF administration.

Aqtan Prison

Located about 10 km north of Raqqa city, Aqtan Prison was built for ISIS fighters. It holds around 2,000 detainees. Despite Raqqa falling under Damascus‑aligned groups, the prison remains under SDF control.

Cherkin Prison

Located in the center of Qamishli city, Cherkin Prison holds about 1,500 dangerous ISIS fighters. It is still managed by the SDF.