Syria - Jun 2, 2011 - 23:51

We're receiving reports that there have been defections in the Syrian army's ranks, prompting violent clashes. We have not been able to confirm this, but are working on doing so.

A witness says that he has seen military helicopters conducting air raids in Arrasta and Tablise, in the Homs region. 

He said the raids took place after about 60-70 soldiers refused to fire on civilians. He said that refusal prompted a surge of 3,000 soldiers into the area to control the situation.

Another witness has spoken of the defection of 200 soldiers and 14 officers in Arrasta. He said that two tanks were seen firing on each other in Arrasta last night.

Phone lines to the area have been cut.