Official investigation into security clashes resulting in civilian casualties in Kirkuk

The Counter-Terrorism Service announced on Thursday the initiation of an official investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of two citizens during armed clashes with terrorist elements in the Altun Kupri subdistrict of Kirkuk Governorate. The service stated in an official release that this security operation was executed within the framework of national duties to pursue terrorist cells and thwart hostile plans aimed at destabilizing societal security and stability. The statement pointed out that a security force tracked two terrorist operatives inside a residential area densely populated with civilians, where one wore an explosive belt while the other was armed with the intent to carry out an attack targeting citizens. It added that during the execution of the duty to contain the threat, clashes broke out, resulting in the death of one terrorist and the arrest of the second, while the confrontations led to the martyrdom of two civilians and the injury of four members of the security force. The service confirmed that immediately following the incident, and based on directives from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, a joint investigative committee was formed, in addition to an order issued by the head of the service to establish a fact-finding committee to accurately determine any shortcomings. The service extended its deepest condolences and sympathy to the families of the two martyrs, wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded fighters. It concluded by affirming that the safety and security of citizens remain the utmost priority, with full commitment to laws, professionalism, and announcing the investigation details to the public with complete transparency.