Human rights groups say more than 580 civilians and 100 soldiers have been killed in a seven-week uprising against the autocratic regime of President Bashar Assad.
Syrian security forces in tanks have entered the Mediterranean coastal city after a day of national protest deadly demanding regime change, according to activists.
The activists, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said that electricity and phone lines to the city of Banias and the surrounding areas on Saturday cut
They said soldiers moved in overnight, after clashes on Friday with an anti-government protesters who claimed 30 lives, according to prominent Syrian rights activist.
This move raised fears of a massive military operation in Banias, similar to that done in the flashpoint city of southern Daraa.
Assad is determined to crush the rebellion which has now become the most severe challenge to 40-year family dynasty. He has tried a combination of violence, intimidation and promises of reform to quell the unrest, but his efforts so far have failed.
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