Asayish Arrests Three ISIS Terrorists, Destroys Hideouts in Joint Operation

PUKMEDIA

Asayish's logo.

The Kurdistan Region Security Agency (Asayish) announced on Sunday, 21 September 2025, the arrest of three Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists in Kirkuk and Sulaymaniyah provinces, as well as the destruction of several terrorist hideouts and facilities. 

The operation was carried out in coordination with the Kirkuk Intelligence and Counter-Terrorism Directorate of the Iraqi Interior Ministry, the Kurdistan Commando Forces, and the US-led Global Coalition against ISIS.

In a statement received by PUKMEDIA, the Asayish said that on 18 September 2025, a terrorist was arrested in Kirkuk province, noting that following investigations and confessions, and based on accurate intelligence, two further ISIS members were identified and arrested in Sulaymaniyah province, in cooperation with the Kurdistan Commando Forces.

The statement also noted that the arrested individuals had previously fought for ISIS and were currently active within the organisation, using social media platforms to spread extremist propaganda.

Moreover the statement said that on 21 September 2025, acting on intelligence gathered during interrogations, the General Directorate of Asayish Operations, together with the Kurdistan Commando Forces and the Global Coalition, conducted an extensive security operation in the Shwan area of Kirkuk, during which several terrorist hideouts and facilities were destroyed.

The Asayish confirmed that the detainees are being held under Article 2 of the Counter-Terrorism Law and that investigations remain ongoing.

ISIS captured large parts of Iraq in 2014 and declared a self-styled “caliphate,” leading to widespread violence and mass displacement. Although Iraq declared victory over the group in 2017, ISIS remnants remain active, particularly in disputed territories between the federal government in Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government.

These areas—including parts of Kirkuk, Nineveh, Diyala, and Saladin provinces—continue to face threats from ISIS elements who engage in ambushes, kidnappings, and extortion targeting both civilians and security personnel.

Iraqi and Kurdish security forces regularly carry out joint operations aimed at eradicating these remaining terrorist networks.



PUKMEDIA