Over 70 injured in Baghdad during New Year's Eve celebrations

The injuries ranged from burns caused by fireworks to wounds inflicted by falling bullets, according to sources. While no fatalities were reported, several individuals required hospital treatment.

A view of traffic jam in a neighborhood in Baghdad. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
A view of traffic jam in a neighborhood in Baghdad. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – More than 70 people sustained injuries during New Year's Eve celebrations in Baghdad due to fireworks and the use of firearms, security and medical sources reported on Wednesday morning.

The injuries ranged from burns caused by fireworks to wounds inflicted by falling bullets, according to sources. While no fatalities were reported, several individuals required hospital treatment.

Authorities had previously issued warnings urging the public to avoid using fireworks and firing weapons during the festivities. Despite the advisories, incidents of celebratory gunfire persisted throughout the night.

In response, Baghdad security forces confiscated over 20 firearms and arrested their owners during the celebrations, a security source confirmed. The authorities emphasized their ongoing efforts to prevent similar incidents at future public gatherings.

New Year's Eve celebrations in Baghdad have been marred by such incidents in previous years, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns to curb dangerous practices.