Kirkuk: At least nine Iraqi federal policemen were killed after bomb struck their convoy southwest of oil-rich city of Kirkuk, two security sources told Reuters. Blast took place near village of Safra , which lies about 30 kilometres southwest of Kirkuk, said source, adding that two other policemen were critically wounded.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani ordered hunt for “Terrorist elements” who carried out attack, dispatching federal police commander to area for further investigation, his office said in statement. There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but militant Islamic State (IS) fighters are active in area.

Iraqi police officers said IS militants were involved in attack, using roadside bombs to target police force which was patrolling area. Federal police officer who attributed assault to IS told AFP on condition of anonymity that bomb blast initially targeted truck transporting men.

It was followed by “Direct attack with small arms”, near village of Chalal al-Matar, he added. “An assailant has been killed and we are looking for others,” officer said, adding that two policemen were also wounded in attack.

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 19 2022

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