In Erbil's Kasnazan District

One dead, another injured in clash over demolition of unauthorized homes

ERBIL – A confrontation between security forces and local residents in the Korek area of Erbil province turned deadly on Thursday, as an attempt to enforce the demolition of unauthorized homes escalated into violence. The clash, which took place in Korek Gawra village, part of the Kasnazan district, resulted in one fatality and left another person injured.

Security forces arrived to carry out evictions related to illegal construction, but according to eyewitnesses, the situation quickly escalated. “We weren’t armed, but the security forces opened fire, killing my nephew and injuring another person,” a family member of the deceased told 964media. The deceased, a young man reportedly aged between 19 and 20, was married, and the injured individual is now in stable condition.

Residents have reportedly faced restrictions on building homes in the area for years, and recent construction activity led to the intervention by authorities. Neither the security forces nor Erbil’s officials have released an official statement regarding the incident, though Ardalan Fatih, spokesperson for Erbil Asayish, confirmed that “the clash occurred during an attempt by security forces to demolish unauthorized homes, but the situation is still under investigation.”

Unauthorized home construction outside official master plans is a common issue in many cities across the Kurdistan region. Authorities regularly conduct raids to demolish these structures, which can lead to confrontations with local residents.