Security
In the context of ongoing efforts to pursue dormant cells and enhance security stability in various regions of the country, the competent authorities have launched an urgent and extensive investigation into recent events in the Altun Kupri sub-district of Kirkuk Governorate. This official step came after deadly armed clashes resulted in civilian casualties and injuries among security forces during a qualitative operation targeting extremist elements attempting to carry out sabotage attacks that threaten public safety. Detailed data on the operation indicate that a special force from the Counter-Terrorism Service was tracking the movements of two terrorist elements inside a densely populated residential area in the governorate. One element was wearing an explosive belt while the other was armed, and both planned to carry out a heinous terrorist attack targeting innocent citizens. Upon spotting them, the force moved to besiege them to prevent a disaster, leading to fierce clashes that resulted in the death of one terrorist and the arrest of the second. Unfortunately, the confrontation also led to the martyrdom of two civilians and injuries to four members of the security forces while performing their national duty. Following these developments, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces issued immediate directives to form a joint investigative committee, alongside an order by the head of the Counter-Terrorism Service to form a fact-finding committee aimed at identifying those at fault and clarifying the full circumstances of the incident. The service expressed its deep sorrow and regret over the civilian casualties, extending heartfelt condolences to the families of the two martyrs, while affirming its absolute commitment to protecting citizens' lives, presenting the facts with complete transparency, and holding violators accountable according to legal and professional frameworks.
