LOGIC.co.id – Iraqi national security officials have successfully captured a key figure from the ISIS group operating in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Azad Shakhi, referred to as the emir or leader of the ISIS Kurdistan faction, was arrested along with six other terrorist suspects in Kirkuk province during an intensive security operation on Saturday (23/11).
This arrest highlights the success of counter-terrorism efforts in a region that has long been a significant battleground against the extremist group. One of the suspects even detonated himself during the siege.
Operation Based on Extensive Intelligence
Colonel Salam Abdulkhaliq, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Security Agency, explained that the arrest was the result of extensive investigation involving intelligence gathering. “The detainees were operating underground and were discovered after a thorough investigation,” he told VOA in Kurdish.
A senior security source in Kirkuk revealed that the group had planned to carry out attacks against security figures and government institutions. “This network has direct connections with ISIS members in the Karadag area and other locations. They have been involved in previous terrorist actions,” the anonymous source explained.
Airstrikes and Additional ISIS Cell Arrests
In addition to this arrest, several other ISIS members have been detained in the past few days in Kirkuk. An airstrike in the Rashad district, west of Kirkuk, reportedly killed several militants from the group. This operation proves that the Iraqi government continues to intensify efforts to dismantle the remaining ISIS sleeper cells still active in the region.
Background of Azad Shakhi
Azad Shakhi is known to be from the village of Shorjay in Kirkuk. He has long been listed as an active member of ISIS and is considered one of the key figures in their network. His capture is expected to disrupt the operational structure of the extremist group in the region.
The ISIS Threat in the Kurdistan Region
ISIS, also known as ISIL or Daesh, remains a serious threat despite losing much of its territory since 2017. In the Kurdistan region of Iraq, they are attempting to maintain their influence through sporadic attacks and infiltrating security institutions.
According to local sources, the group is attempting to re-establish power and target strategic locations to destabilize the region. “The sleeper cells in Kirkuk play a crucial role in maintaining the ISIS network in northern Iraq,” the source added.
Next Steps: International Cooperation
This success reflects the importance of cooperation between Iraqi authorities, the Kurdistan Regional Government, and international allies in combating the ISIS threat. Support from the international coalition, including precision airstrikes, continues to play a critical role in fighting the terrorist group.
Security officials hope that the capture of figures like Azad Shakhi can have a significant impact in weakening ISIS in the region, while also sending a warning to other groups attempting to continue their terrorist activities.
Additional Notes: Operations like this show that the threat from ISIS is not completely over, despite their loss of significant territory. Ongoing efforts are needed to ensure stability and security in the region.
