Hails arms control program
Iraqi interior ministry reports drop in armed tribal conflict
BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Ministry of Interior announced on Sunday a notable decrease in tribal conflicts across the country, attributing the success to a new program that centralizes control over arms. According to the ministry, the initiative has significantly reduced such clashes in the south and eliminated them in central and western regions.
Speaking to Iraqiya TV, Brigadier Maqdad Al-Moussawi, spokesperson for the Ministry, detailed the measures taken, including the issuance of several judgments under Article 4 of the Terrorism Act. This includes the life imprisonment of five individuals in Dhi Qar Governorate and the seizure of large quantities of weapons. Al-Moussawi highlighted the weapons registration program and the restriction of arms to state control as key factors in the reduction of tribal conflicts.
Additionally, Al-Moussawi mentioned the ministry’s efforts to curb indiscriminate shooting, resulting in numerous arrests and a mix of sentences and ongoing investigations.
In a move to further support disarmament, the Ministry of Finance has earmarked funds for weapons buyback programs across various Iraqi governorates, aiming to consolidate the gains made in reducing violence and enhancing public safety. Though the total funds available for the program will not make a significant dent in the statistics for private gun ownership nationwide.
Ministry of finance allocates funds for weapons buybacks across Iraqi governorates
