London: Rebel groups in Syria have reportedly captured a key oilfield in eastern Deir Ezzor province.
The reports have not been independently confirmed, but the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights group said al-Ward fell after fierce fighting.
The Observatory said it was the first time the rebels had taken control of an oilfield.
“Rebels in the Jaafar Tayyar Brigade took control of al-Ward oilfield, east of the town of Mayadin, after a siege that lasted several days,” the Observatory said.
According to the BBC, the Observatory also cited witnesses, residents and activists as saying rebels had shot down a warplane that had been carrying out attacks on Mayadin.
The Observatory is one of the most prominent organisations documenting and reporting incidents and casualties in the Syrian conflict.
The group says its reports are impartial, though its information cannot be independently verified.
The news came as various opposition groups met for crucial talks in Qatar.
ANI
