Iraqi National Security Service arrests suspects in Al-Salamiyat checkpoint bombing

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi National Security Service announced Sunday the arrest of those responsible for the Sept. 10 bombing at the Al-Salamiyat checkpoint north of Baghdad. The attack killed a soldier and a civilian delivery driver and injured three other security personnel.

Spokesman Arshad Al-Hakim said in a video statement, “The circumstances surrounding the bombing at the Al-Salamiyat checkpoint north of Baghdad have been uncovered. The attack resulted in the martyrdom of a soldier and a civilian delivery driver, and the injury of three others.”

Al-Hakim said security forces intensified “intelligence, field, and technical efforts to pursue those involved” after the bombing. “One suspect was identified, and after obtaining the necessary judicial approvals, he was arrested,” he said.

When confronted with evidence, the suspect admitted to his role in the attack. “He confessed to participating in the operation after receiving an explosive device from another suspect, who has also been arrested,” Al-Hakim said.

The first suspect used social media to pose as a woman and lure one of the checkpoint officers, Al-Hakim said. The suspect then placed the explosive device inside a delivery order, which was unknowingly transported by a motorcycle driver. The bomb detonated when the package was opened, he said.

The confessions have been “officially recorded,” and the suspects have been referred to authorities for legal proceedings, Al-Hakim said, adding that all necessary actions would be taken to bring them to justice.

The statement did not reveal the motives behind the attack or whether the suspects were affiliated with any groups or political parties.