Two suspects arrested in connection to Diyala showroom murder

DIYALA — Iraqi authorities have arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of a security guard at a car showroom in Khales, Diyala governorate, the Ministry of Interior announced Thursday.

The suspects were apprehended in separate operations in the Kurdistan Region and Mosul, following a coordinated investigation involving multiple governorates.

The incident occurred Monday night when the security guard was killed during a robbery at the showroom. The victim’s body was discovered the following morning, on November 5, 2024. Investigators determined the suspects allegedly murdered the guard and stole an expensive vehicle from the premises.

On Thursday, the Ministry of Interior confirmed the formation of a special task force to pursue the case. Surveillance footage from the showroom was pivotal in identifying the suspects, the ministry said.

According to the statement, intelligence-sharing between police commanders in Diyala and Kirkuk governorates led to the first suspect’s arrest in the Kurdistan Region after he fled to Kirkuk. The second suspect was apprehended in Mosul by a joint task force. Authorities also recovered the stolen vehicle during the operation, which was taken into custody alongside the second suspect.

Both suspects are being charged under Article 406 of the Iraqi Penal Code, which pertains to homicide. The Ministry of Interior stated that preparations are underway to transfer the suspects to the appropriate courts for judicial proceedings. If convicted, they could face severe penalties under Iraqi law.