Baghdad police arrest three suspects after acid attack on woman driver

BAGHDAD — Karkh Police Command said Saturday it arrested three suspects accused of throwing acid on a woman while she was driving in Baghdad, and referred them to investigative authorities for legal action.

In a statement, the command said units from the Salam Police Station, part of the Hurriya police department, “were able to arrest three suspects after one of them threw acid on a girl while she was driving her vehicle.” After identifying those involved, Karkh Police Commander Maj. Gen. Adnan Hassan Hamad formed a specialized team to track them, and the team “reached them in record time and apprehended them.”

The command said the detainees were transferred to the relevant investigative bodies “to take the necessary legal measures,” and pledged to continue pursuing “anyone who attempts to threaten the security and safety of citizens.” The statement did not address a motive for the attack.

Throwing acid at women has become an increasing concern in Iraq. On Feb. 23, 2025, media presenter Noor al-Khafaji was attacked with acid in Baghdad’s Karrada district. The Iraqi Women Journalists Forum said the assault “reflects rising violence against women in general and female journalists in particular in Iraq,” calling it “a blatant violation of human rights.”

Acid attacks often leave victims with severe, permanent injuries, including deep chemical burns, disfigurement and loss of eyesight. Survivors can require years of reconstructive surgery and long-term medical care.