Suspect in killing of Gharraf police officer arrested after shootout

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Interior announced Tuesday the arrest of Ahmed Ali Karim, the suspect accused of killing Lt. Col. Muhannad Risan Al-Zaidi during a security operation last month in Dhi Qar’s Gharraf district.

The arrest was made during a joint operation involving several security units, including Criminal Investigation, the Falcons Intelligence Cell, Anti-Terrorism Intelligence, and the Third Commando Battalion. The suspect was found in a remote desert area between Dhi Qar and Basra governorates, where he engaged in a brief exchange of gunfire with security forces.

“He was wounded in the leg during the confrontation, and security forces seized an RBK light machine gun and a pistol in his possession,” the ministry said in a statement. Karim was transferred to a hospital for treatment and will be handed over to investigative authorities once stabilized.

Lt. Col. al-Zaidi was killed on April 4 during an operation targeting a high-risk suspect in the villages of Gharraf district, in an incident that drew national attention and renewed calls for improved protection for officers conducting field raids.

The ministry also reported the arrest of four additional individuals accused of helping Karim evade capture. “Their legal status is being reviewed, and they will face justice for aiding in the escape of a wanted individual,” the statement said.