Three poachers nabbed in Sulaymaniyah’s Qaradagh following intensified crackdown

SULAYMANIYAH — The Sulaymaniyah Directorate of Forestry and Environment Police arrested three poachers on Monday while they attempted to hunt in the Qaradagh area.

Authorities said that surveillance and routine patrols led to the arrests. In addition to detaining the suspects, officers confiscated a Land Cruiser, a rifle, 12 rounds of ammunition, and a knife.

Investigations are underway, and legal action will be pursued against the suspects in accordance with judicial decisions.

Since the beginning of the year, the Sulaymaniyah Forestry and Environment Police have arrested a total of 43 poachers. The agency continues its efforts to combat illegal hunting through regular patrols, strict enforcement of penalties, and community engagement initiatives.

Under the 2008 Environmental Protection and Improvement Law, hunting, capturing, or trading endangered species is strictly prohibited. Violators can face penalties of up to one month in prison and fines ranging from 150,000 Iraqi dinars (about $100) to 200 million dinars (roughly $133,333), with harsher consequences for repeat offenders.