Security forces deploy near a fuel station in Baghdad’s al-Shaab area as traffic backs up late Tuesday, in footage taken from videos that circulated online showing clashes between armed men and police.
Federal police arrest nine armed men after gas station assault in east Baghdad
BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Interior Ministry said Wednesday that federal police arrested nine armed men accused of assaulting a worker at a gas station in the al-Shaab area of eastern Baghdad, after an operation that involved an exchange of gunfire.
In a statement, the ministry said a federal police unit moved to the site after receiving a report of the assault and encountered armed resistance during the arrest operation. Security forces exchanged gunfire with the suspects before regaining control of the situation and detaining nine people, the statement said, adding that no security personnel were injured.
The ministry said the suspects claimed affiliation with Saraya al-Salam, an armed group linked to the Sadrist movement led by Muqtada al-Sadr.
Videos showing the clashes circulated widely on social media late Tuesday, with residents in the area reporting fear and disruption.
Investigations are continuing to determine the circumstances and motives behind the incident, the ministry said, adding that legal measures will be taken against those arrested.
Security agencies “affirm their commitment to enforcing the law, protecting citizens and dealing firmly with any violation that affects security and stability,” the statement said.