Wildfire in Penjwen brought under control after five days

SULAYMANIYAH — A large wildfire that burned for nearly five days in Penjwen district was declared under control Saturday evening after destroying about 1,930 dunams (477 acres) of pastures and forests, local officials said.

“At 6:40 p.m., we were informed that the fire near the village of Nazar had been completely controlled. However, teams remain on site to monitor the area and ensure it does not flare up again,” Penjwen district administrator Hemin Ibrahim told 964media, thanking firefighting teams, police, environmental groups and local residents.

The blaze began near Halalawa village and spread across several areas, including Meso, Kilo, Nazar and Daragurga. The Malako Organization, an environmental group, said 1,930 dunams of land were lost. Two volunteers were injured while battling the flames and remain under medical care.

Bakhtiyar Ali, a Malako volunteer who fought the fire for more than 30 hours, called it the most destructive he had seen in 15 years. “Honestly, our condition was very difficult because the fire was very intense and dangerous. There was wind on top of that, so we were exhausted, and protecting ourselves was very hard. Sometimes we thought we would have to hide under the rocks,” he told 964media, adding that many wild animals and plants were lost.

The Sulaimaniyah Forest and Environment Police said a suspect has been arrested on charges of causing the fire and remains under investigation. Authorities noted that rugged terrain and the presence of landmines made firefighting operations difficult, though support came from forest police, Malako volunteers, residents and municipal teams.