Municipal authorities in Halabja have seized several animals found in public areas and markets. (Photo: Halabja Municipality)
Cows and calves
Halabja municipality seizes 100 animals in public spaces
HALABJA — The Halabja Municipality has captured 100 animals from markets and public areas in the city, citing concerns about their presence in these spaces.
Photos released by the municipality show cows and calves among the captured animals. The operation was conducted in coordination with municipal police.
Halabja Mayor Salam Bilal previously told 964media that the unregulated presence of animals in streets and public areas has prompted complaints from residents about damage to trees and gardens in the city.
“The owners of these animals will face fines determined by a municipal committee,” the mayor said. “After paying the fines, owners can retrieve their animals.”
Municipalities across the Kurdistan Region have begun enforcing stricter regulations on livestock roaming within city limits. Fines for animal owners increased from 25,000 dinars to 100,000 dinars ($19 to $76) in May 2024.
Situated near the Iranian border and about 83 kilometers southeast of Sulaymaniyah, Halabja was officially recognized as a governorate by the Kurdistan Regional Government in recent years.