Demonstration in Warte, Erbil Ends with One Death, Several Injured

 

Warte, Erbil, 13 July 2025
 A public demonstration over ongoing electricity shortages turned deadly Monday morning in the town of Warte, located within the Erbil Governorate. The protest, which escalated into clashes with security forces, resulted in the death of one civilian and injuries to at least five others.

According to Kurdfile Media’s on-ground correspondent, the protest began around 10 p.m. on Sunday night, with residents from Warte and the surrounding villages of Razhukaryan and Sarnaws gathering on Hafiz Bridge near Hamilton Road. Protesters voiced anger over the lack of electricity, particularly in areas without access to private generators and fully reliant on national power.

Despite previous government promises to increase electricity supply, residents say no improvements have been made sparking widespread frustration and mobilization.

Tensions peaked when security forces reportedly opened fire. Among the casualties was 45-year-old Hassan Rahman, who died at the scene. Five others were injured during the confrontation.

Following the incident, residents of the Balakayati area held gatherings to denounce the killing. They demanded justice and called on authorities to hand over the alleged perpetrator, identified as Samad Omer, a member of the Asayish security forces in Soran.

Social media footage reportedly shows Omer at the scene of the shooting. His Facebook profile has since been locked, and according to local sources, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) has not handed him over to judicial authorities. Instead, he was allegedly relocated to Duhok for his protection.

Community leaders and activists in the region have vowed that “this blood will not go unanswered”, intensifying public pressure on the KRG to respond with transparency and accountability.