Kirkuk police arrest three over wedding gunfire after video circulates online

KIRKUK — Police in Kirkuk arrested three individuals less than 24 hours after a video circulated on social media showing celebratory gunfire during a wedding convoy, authorities said Monday.

The incident occurred July 7 in a Kirkuk neighborhood, where individuals were seen firing various weapons into the air. Amer Nuri, spokesperson for the Kirkuk Police Command, said the footage prompted immediate concern and action.

“The gunfire disrupted public security and endangered lives,” Nuri said. Police identified and arrested the suspects within hours. A vehicle used in the convoy was also seized.

Celebratory gunfire remains a common and dangerous practice in Iraq, often seen at weddings, religious events, and sporting celebrations. It has resulted in numerous injuries and deaths due to stray bullets.

In April 2024, a groom in Mosul was killed by gunfire during his own wedding celebration.

Decades of conflict have left Iraq awash in unlicensed weapons, fueling calls from the public for stronger enforcement. Last year, the Interior Ministry launched a firearm buyback initiative to reduce the number of illegal guns in circulation.