Iraq: Gunmen kill and kidnap villagers in Saladin province October 17

Event

A group of unidentified gunmen kidnapped 12 people from the village of al-Farhatiyah in Balad district (Saladin province) on Saturday, October 17. Police later found the bodies of eight of those kidnapped with bullet holes in their heads and chests. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, although local officials have identified the incident as an act of terrorism. An investigation is being carried out into the incident and additional security personnel have been deployed to the area.

Operations by security forces are likely to be carried out in the area over the coming days. Further attacks of a similar nature cannot be ruled out in the near term.

Advice

Those in Saladin province are advised to remain vigilant for militant activity and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.