Body of Sadrist activist found in Babil following abduction

BABIL – The Iraqi security forces discovered the body of Ayser al-Khafaji, a notable activist within the Sadrist movement, on a highway in the Jabala area of Babil province, officials reported on Monday. Al-Khafaji had been missing since his abduction the previous day. The Ministry of Interior has emphasized its ongoing battle against “outlaw elements” that periodically threaten public peace, affirming its commitment to not tolerating such disruptions.

In response to this incident, a specialized investigative team from the Babil Police Command has been mobilized to uncover the circumstances surrounding the abduction and subsequent death of the civilian. Early findings suggest “significant leads on the perpetrators,” promising accountability and justice.

Al-Khafaji, renowned for his active engagement and promotion of Sadrist ideology through social media, was a vocal advocate against the movement’s opposition. With a bachelor’s degree in financial and banking sciences from the University of Babil, his activism had recently become a catalyst for escalating tensions between the Sadrist movement and factions implicated in his demise. The discovery of his body has ignited a media conflict on social media platforms, with accusations from Sadrist supporters pointing towards outlawed militias for the murder. These claims counter earlier allegations made by militia sympathizers, who suggested Al-Khafaji was detained by police in a blackmail case before his death was confirmed.

In a vehement response, the Khafaja tribe issued a statement condemning the government for Al-Khafaji’s death and urgently calling for the identification and prosecution of those responsible. The tribe has announced plans for a protest in Babil to demand justice for Al-Khafaji. Additionally, a poignant message from an elderly tribal leader circulated online, issuing a 24-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest the killers, with a warning of potential repercussions against their offices.