Truck Drivers Protest Against Daraman Checkpoint, Demand Its Removal

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Truck drivers operating on the Kirkuk-Erbil route staged a protest at the Daraman checkpoint, blocking the road and setting fire to tires, demanding the immediate removal of the checkpoint, which they claim is hindering the transport of goods between the two cities.

Allegations of Corruption and Unjust Fees

According to Kurdistan 24 correspondent, who was present at the scene, the drivers expressed frustration over the arbitrary restrictions imposed at the checkpoint. Many accused customs officials of extorting money from them, stating that only those who pay bribes are allowed to pass.

One driver stated: "We transport simple goods like cartons, yet they refuse to let us through unless we pay 200,000 IQD." Another added: "I have all the required permits, yet they still deny me passage from Erbil to Kirkuk."

Checkpoint Causing Financial Losses

Several drivers argued that the checkpoint is severely impacting their business, with one explaining: "I have a company permit, but they still won't allow me to transport 200 cartons of gloves. The reason is simple – they want money. Since the arrival of the new governor, the issue has worsened. They are deliberately trying to harm Erbil's economy."

Another protester emphasized the unfair treatment by security forces, stating: "Officers and soldiers treat us harshly. The checkpoints create unnecessary congestion. Why should we undergo inspections that take hours, when similar checkpoints elsewhere in Iraq don’t have these issues?"

A Longstanding Issue with No Resolution

Drivers reported that the crisis has persisted for ten days without any intervention from authorities. A frustrated driver noted: "This problem exists only in Kirkuk. In other parts of Iraq, there are no such obstacles."

The establishment of these customs points has significantly impacted the markets in Kirkuk and other Iraqi provinces, leading to a rise in prices.

Following the events of October 16, 2017, when the Iraqi army and Hashd al-Shaabi militias assumed control of the disputed Kurdish territories, Baghdad initially set up these customs points. They were later removed, allowing truck traffic to resume normal operations. However, the Iraqi Council of Ministers has since reinstated the customs points, and the issue remains unresolved to this day.