Erbil, Iraq – The Kurdistan Region Security Agency announced on Sunday the execution of a series of precise security operations that resulted in the arrest of 22 ISIS members—including an individual described as a “Sharia Emir”—during extensive operations in the Sulaymaniyah and Halabja governorates. This move comes as part of efforts to thwart militant plots targeting the security and stability of the region.
Details of the operations and the seizure of an arsenal of weapons
In an official statement, the agency announced that the General Directorate of Security Operations—in cooperation and coordination with the Sulaymaniyah and Halabja security directorates—had carried out several specialized operations over the past 96 hours.
The statement added that security forces seized a large and varied assortment of heavy, medium, and light weapons from the detainees, as well as hand grenades, military-grade binoculars, and live ammunition. It also indicated that investigations and intelligence information reveal the group had planned to carry out several armed and subversive acts in mid-September.
“Sharia Emir” Arrested; Investigations Ongoing
Regarding the details of the operation to apprehend the senior leader, the statement indicated that security forces succeeded—at 11:20 PM yesterday, Saturday, September 12, 2026—in capturing the group’s “Sharia Emir” in the Khormal area. This followed an armed clash that broke out while his location was being surrounded and the arrest operation was being carried out. The statement confirmed that the operation concluded successfully, with no casualties reported among the security forces.
The agency stated that all members of the cell are currently in custody under judicial supervision, while intensive investigations into the case are ongoing. It also confirmed that all evidence and seized items are in the possession of the General Directorate of Security Operations and the competent investigating judge. In its concluding statement, the Kurdistan Region Security Agency indicated that it would soon disclose to the public the detainees’ confessions and detailed evidence regarding the case. It further clarified that all members of the arrested group are of Kurdish ethnicity.
