Iraqi Security Forces Arrest 47 Members of Banned Qurban Sect
The Qurban sect, also known as "Allahiyah," is a controversial religious group in Iraq known for unconventional beliefs and practices, including self-sacrifice in religious ceremonies.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - On Monday, the Iraqi National Security Service (INSS) announced the arrest of 47 individuals associated with the proscribed al-Qurbanion organization across four governorates.
The INSS stated that their teams in Muthanna apprehended 20 members, including a prominent figure known as "al-Arif," a title given to the group's theorists or propagandists. Additionally, 27 more members were arrested in the governorates of Dhi Qar, Wasit, and Maysan.
All detainees have been handed over to the relevant legal authorities for further investigation and prosecution. This crackdown follows a series of arrests in recent months targeting members of this extremist group.
The Qurban sect, also referred to as "Allahiyah," is a controversial and secretive religious group that has gained notoriety in Iraq, particularly in the southern governorate of Dhi Qar. They adhere to unconventional beliefs and practices, including self-sacrifice or "offering oneself" in religious ceremonies.
Founded during the time of the late religious leader Mohammed Mohammed Sadiq al-Sadr, the Qurban sect is not recognized by any mainstream Muslim sect and even al-Sadr himself distanced himself from the group.
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The sect holds Imam Ali Bin Abi Taleb in high regard and carries out a ritual involving a lottery to choose an individual for sacrifice.
These recent arrests highlight the Iraqi government's continued efforts to combat extremist groups and maintain security and stability in the country.