(MENAFN) In the evolving landscape of Syria, the fight against the group known as Islamic State (IS) remains active, particularly in the Kurdish-controlled north-east.

Despite the ongoing presence of IS in the region, this struggle has largely faded from global news coverage, overshadowed by more prominent conflicts.

However, Kurdish counter-terrorism officials have shared with the BBC that IS sleeper cells in Syria are reorganizing and escalating their attacks, posing a persistent threat.

Walid Abdul-Basit Sheikh Mousa, a 21-year-old passionate about motorbikes, finally managed to purchase one in January, only to have his life tragically cut short a few weeks later.

He was killed in February while fighting against IS forces in north-eastern Syria. Walid's commitment to the fight against the extremists was evident from a young age.

At just 15, he ran away from home to join the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Although he was initially sent back due to his age, the SDF accepted him three years later, recognizing his determination.

The young man's family gathered in their home in the city of Qamishli to reflect on his life. His mother, Rojin Mohammed, shared an emotional memory: "I see him everywhere," she said.

"He left me with so many memories. He was very caring and affectionate." Walid, the youngest of eight children and the youngest boy in the family, had a special bond with his mother.

She fondly remembers how he would always find a way to get what he wanted: "When he wanted something, he would come and kiss me," she recalls. "And say 'can you give me money so I can buy cigarettes?'"

Walid's life was tragically cut short while fighting near a strategically significant dam. His cousin, who had been searching the front lines, was the one to find his body. Through her tears, his mother expressed her grief and anger, calling for vengeance against IS.

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