Tensions in Dhi Qar over eviction operation with conflicting reports on arrest of council member

DHI QAR — Tensions escalated during an eviction operation at Souq Haraj in central Nasiriyah when Dhi Qar Provincial Council member Salem Al-Ismaili and his security detail reportedly interfered with efforts to remove unauthorized structures, triggering conflicting reports on whether he was arrested or detained.

A security source told 964media that Al-Ismaili and his team were detained after they intervened in the security operation. “Legal measures have been taken against them, and an investigation is underway,” the source stated.

In contrast, Ahmed Al-Rumaidh, head of the Dhi Qar Security Committee, denied that Al-Ismaili had been arrested and urged media outlets to verify information before publication.

Al-Ismaili later released a video statement in which he did not deny his detention but sharply criticized the excessive use of force against civilians. “I witnessed security personnel assaulting civilians and violating their rights. The people of Dhi Qar do not deserve such treatment,” he said, calling for an investigation into police conduct.