Suspected arson damages cultural center in Dibaga

DIBAGA — A fire broke out early Saturday at the Dibaga Cultural and Archive Center in Makhmour district, Erbil governorate, with initial assessments pointing to arson. Damages are estimated at 6 million Iraqi dinars (about $4,050), according to local officials.

Adnan Haji Kaka, the center’s director, told 964media the blaze began just before or shortly after the morning call to prayer. “A window was broken and the fire was set inside the building, which led to it burning,” he said.

The center operates out of a clay-built private residence repurposed as a gallery, antiques room, and library. Though not government-owned, it is authorized by the Ministry of Culture and serves as a cultural and archival hub for Dibaga and surrounding communities.

“There was no other cultural facility in the area,” Haji Kaka said. “We created this space ourselves, using a house made of clay. It’s not affiliated with any party, tribe, or figure — it’s purely for the people and for Dibaga’s heritage.”

He said municipal civil defense and electricity officials confirmed there was no electrical fault and that the fire had been intentionally set. “The window had been broken and the fire was started inside,” he added.

Municipal authorities estimate total damages at 6 million dinars.