Tourist from Baghdad drowns in Dukan, say local police

SULAYMANIYAH — A tourist from Baghdad drowned Saturday morning in Sulaymaniyah’s Dukan, according to local police. The victim was one of three tourists who had entered the water, reportedly for recreation.

Adil Salih, head of Dukan police, told 964media that the drowned individual, aged 18, was recovered by the district’s civil defense diving team and transferred to the forensic department in Sulaymaniyah  for investigation. They are waiting for the family to identify the body and complete formal procedures.

He added that legal steps have been initiated, and the two individuals who were with the victim at the time of the incident are currently under investigation. Their statements have been recorded, and their case will be referred to a judge for further action.

As of late July, thirty-two people have drowned across the Kurdistan Region this year, with Erbil governorate recording the highest number of cases, according to civil defense officials.

The overall toll reflects a decrease from the same period in 2024, when 49 drownings were recorded in the first seven months.

Despite repeated warnings from authorities, many residents and tourists continue to swim rivers and lakes to cool off in the summer heat, often underestimating the risks.