Sulaymaniyah: The Kurdistan Region Security Service issued a clarification regarding the Sulaymaniyah events.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Service stated in a statement that in an armed confrontation lasting over three hours, the forces seized control of the “Laleh Zar” Hotel in the Sarjnar neighborhood of Sulaymaniyah at dawn on Friday, August 22. All gunmen who confronted the forces were arrested during the operation.

The Service added that an arrest warrant was issued by the Security Investigation Court for Lahur Janki Borhan and other individuals under Article (406) of the Iraqi Penal Code. Despite numerous attempts by the forces to encourage the wanted individuals to surrender via telephone calls and loudspeakers, the individuals refused. Instead, they announced they had armed militias and intended to confront the security forces, who are affiliated with the Kurdistan Regional Government. The confrontation began when the individuals fired on the forces to prevent the arrests.

The Service confirmed that the operation was judicially sanctioned, aiming to implement the arrest warrant issued by the judge to ensure no group operates outside the law, maintaining security and stability.

It was explained that since dawn, the Sulaymaniyah Security Forces successfully controlled the location and cleared it of accused outlaws and their militias, who had declared their intent to confront the official forces.

The Service reported that three security force members were martyred and 19 others injured during the confrontations. Deepest condolences and sympathy were extended, along with wishes for the speedy recovery of the wounded.

The Service confirmed the situation in Sulaymaniyah is calm, with citizens moving around normally. It emphasized that the security of Sulaymaniyah is a red line, and no group, militia, or outlaw will be permitted to destabilize the region’s security.

The statement clarified that all accused in the “Laleh Zar” incident have been arrested in accordance with the law and will face justice.