Sulaymaniyah: Security forces arrested the leader of the Popular Front in the Kurdistan Region, Lahur Sheikh Jangi, following clashes in Sulaymaniyah last night.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Lahur Sheikh Jangi and his two brothers, Polad and Aso, were apprehended by security personnel. During the arrest, Polad Sheikh Jangi sustained injuries after refusing to surrender.

The Sulaymaniyah Security Investigations Court reportedly issued an arrest warrant for Lahur Sheikh Jangi on Thursday morning under Article 56 of the Iraqi Penal Code. Sulaymaniyah Governor Haval Abu Bakr had earlier remarked that the ongoing clashes between security forces and Jangi’s forces were not a solution and urged collective efforts to end this situation.

A large deployment of security forces was observed near the Lalazar Hotel in Sulaymaniyah, where Jangi was staying, since Thursday evening. Clashes broke out shortly after 3:00 a.m. on Friday, with video footage showing flames and smoke emanating from the hotel.

Rudaw News previously reported that counterterrorism forces from the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) advanced on Jangi’s headquarters, engaging in a battle with his forces. In a video message recorded on his rooftop, Jangi stated, “These friends [the PUK leadership] have decided to attack. This may be my last message, and I will starve to death.”

Jangi expressed his commitment to the Kurdish people, saying, “I could have gone to Europe to live a decent life, but for the sake of the Kurdish people, I decided to stay here and not submit to any oppressive force. I have proven my Kurdishness in all four corners of Kurdistan, and I love you, the Kurdish people. I kiss the eyes of all Kurds, one by one.”