Caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi said on Monday that security agencies are effectively carrying out their duties, stressing that recent crimes are not security-related acts but rather one driven by psychological or neurological factors.

“We must distinguish between security-related and premeditated crimes and ordinary criminal offenses. We need to increase the security presence in various areas to help reduce criminal acts, but we cannot preempt them," Mawlawi said in a news conference following a meeting of the Central Security Council. 

Mawlawi noted that security forces arrested 1,920 individuals in January for various crimes, describing this as proof that law enforcement is functioning effectively and that preventive security measures are in place.

To curb rising crime rates, Mawlawi announced increased patrols and the enforcement of a motorcycle ban in Beirut.

“We have instructed all security agencies to boost their presence. The rise in theft and snatching incidents has coincided with an increase in arrests,” he added.

Addressing public concerns over high-profile murders, Mawlawi reassured that security forces are intensifying their efforts. He acknowledged that crimes such as the killings of Archimandrite Anania Kojanian and young Khalil Khalil could not have been anticipated but said authorities are actively pursuing the perpetrators. He also revealed that the suspect in the Archimandrite’s murder is likely to have fled to Syria, and investigations are ongoing.

The minister also addressed concerns over Lebanon’s porous borders with Syria, highlighting that while the Lebanese Army is actively working to control crossings, coordination between security agencies remains insufficient. He called for greater cooperation from the Syrian authorities and emphasized the need to strengthen the International Liaison Office to facilitate the apprehension of fugitives escaping to Syria.

“Security agencies are working swiftly to arrest perpetrators before they leave Lebanese territory,” Mawlawi said.

Furthermore, Mawlawi responded to reports of funds reaching Hezbollah through Beirut’s international airport, asserting that security measures are in place.

“The Airport Security Apparatus is performing its duties to the fullest. Additional inspection points have been set up, and we have been assured that procedures are being followed rigorously to monitor everything entering through the airport,” he said.