Four police officers detained after altercation at Dhi Qar hospital

DHI QAR — Iraq’s Interior Ministry has detained four police officers pending an investigation into an altercation between an emergency patrol unit and local civilians inside a hospital in Dhi Qar, officials said Tuesday.

The incident took place at Qalat Sukkar Hospital in northern Dhi Qar, where members of an emergency patrol unit reportedly became involved in a dispute with several civilians who were visiting the facility. The civilians were relatives of one side in a local tribal dispute and had entered the hospital for treatment or other medical purposes.

The ministry has not yet disclosed details of the nature of altercation or reported any injuries.

Senior Deputy Interior Minister Hussein al-Awadi ordered an immediate investigation into the incident and directed that the four officers be placed in detention while authorities determine responsibility and examine the circumstances surrounding the clash.

In a statement, the ministry said the investigation aims to identify any misconduct and establish legal accountability.

The ministry said the measures reflect its “commitment to enforcing the law, protecting citizens’ dignity and safeguarding medical institutions.” It added that it would not tolerate violations or negligence by its personnel under any circumstances.