Sulaimani Security Forces Arrest Three Journalists
Kurdistan24 has learned that the journalists were detained under Article 433 of the Iraqi Penal Code.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Security forces in Sulaimani have arrested three journalists, but no official statement has been issued regarding the reasons behind their detention.
Journalists Detained Without Official Clarification
According to Kurdistan24’s correspondent, the three journalists, Nabaz Sheikhani, Dana Salih, and Bashdar Baziani, were taken into custody on Saturday.
Sources indicate that two of the detained journalists are affiliated with different media outlets, and their arrests are reportedly linked to an unpublished media program.
Legal Basis for Arrests Under Article 433
Kurdistan24 has learned that the journalists were detained under Article 433 of the Iraqi Penal Code. This article criminalizes defamation, defining it as the public attribution of an act to another person in a way that could harm their reputation or expose them to legal action.
According to the law, defamation is punishable by imprisonment, a fine, or both. If the act is committed through media channels such as newspapers or television, the penalty is more severe. However, individuals accused of defamation can present evidence to justify their claims, but only if the alleged victim is a public official or holds a position related to public interests.
Lack of Response from Authorities
Despite multiple attempts, Kurdistan24 has not received a response from Sulaimani security officials regarding the case. Similarly, Metro Center for Journalists' Rights and Advocacy is following up on the matter.