Suspect in café shooting surrenders as police pursue further arrests

SULAYMANIYAH — One suspect involved in a shooting at a café in Sulaymaniyah surrendered to police, authorities confirmed.

The incident took place on Friday night at Fancy café in the Chwar Chra neighbourhood, where a dispute escalated into gunfire, causing panic among customers. Police and security forces launched a search for the suspects, leading to one turning himself in.

“The suspect Z.H.A. was arrested by police and found in possession of a Turkish-made pistol,” the Sulaymaniyah Police Directorate said in a statement. “By order of the judge, he has been officially detained, and the investigation is ongoing.”

Authorities confirmed that efforts are still underway to locate and arrest the remaining suspects. “Our forces will continue searching for all individuals with arrest warrants. Anyone issued a warrant will be taken into custody,” the police statement added.

Sources told 964media that the suspect is the son of a former tribal leader.

“The shooter was inside the café when a verbal argument broke out. Moments later, he pulled out a weapon and fired shots,” a witness told 964media. “The café was crowded at the time.”

No injuries were reported, though the shooting caused extensive damage to the café’s decor and structure.

Footage of the shooting, appearing to show three individuals, has circulated widely on social media.