Asayish Statement: Lalezar Operation Conducted Under Court Authority

PUKMEDIA

Asayish's logo.

The Kurdistan Region Security Agency (Asayish) has issued a statement regarding the arrest of Lahur Jangi, reaffirming that the operation was carried out strictly in accordance with a court order and in line with the principles of law, with the aim of safeguarding security and peace.

The statement read: “In an armed clash that lasted more than three hours in the early hours of Friday, 22 August, our forces took control of the Lalezar Hotel in the Sarchinar district of Sulaymaniyah and arrested all the militants who confronted our units.”

The statement clarified: "Following the issuance of an arrest warrant under Article 406 of the Iraqi Penal Code by the Asayish Investigation Court for Lahur Jangi Burhan and several other wanted individuals, the order was referred to the security forces for enforcement."

The Asayish confirmed that repeated attempts were made to secure a peaceful surrender, including direct telephone contacts with the wanted individuals and public warnings broadcast via loudspeakers, assuring them that their lives would be protected if they laid down their arms.

However, the statement noted that the suspects refused to comply, declaring instead that they commanded an armed militia and would resist arrest and subsequently opened fire on the Asayish, who are official forces of the Kurdistan Regional Government performing their lawful duties.

“Our forces were then compelled to respond in order to enforce the arrest warrants and protect public security. This operation was carried out strictly on the basis of the judicial decision, leaving no room for deviation from the law. Security and peace will continue to be upheld,” the statement added.

The Asayish confirmed that its units had secured the Lalezar Hotel and the surrounding area, removing all armed groups operating outside the law.

Tragically, three members of the security forces were martyred during the clashes, and 19 others sustained injuries. The Asayish extended its deepest condolences to the families of the martyrs and wished the injured a full and swift recovery.

The statement concluded: “The situation in Sulaymaniyah has now stabilised, and normal life has resumed. The security and peace of Sulaymaniyah are a red line. No illegal group will be permitted to disrupt the stability of our region. All suspects arrested at Lalezar have been taken into custody in accordance with the law and will be brought to justice.”

Regarding the incident, Sulaymaniyah Court Spokesperson, Judge Salah Hassan, previously stated on Friday afternoon: “What occurred at Lalezar was the result of the defendants’ refusal to surrender, and the incident unfortunately led to deaths and injuries.”

He added that the defendants will face prosecution under Article 406 of the Iraqi Penal Code.



PUKMEDIA