BEIRUT — A leading human rights activist says Syrian security forces have killed 30 people during widespread protests.

Thousands of demonstrators held rallies today in major areas across the country, including the capital, Damascus, and its suburbs, despite an increased security presence.

The activist asked that his name not be used because of mounting security concerns in Syria. His group compiles death toll figures and human rights violations in the country.

Rights groups say more than 580 civilians and 100 soldiers have been killed in the seven-week-old uprising against President Bashar Assad’s autocratic regime.