Sulaimani Court: Lahur Sheikh Jangi Can Appeal Verdict as Clashes Leave Casualties
Sulaimani court says Lahur Sheikh Jangi can appeal verdict after clashes with PUK forces left 3 dead, 19 injured. No civilian casualties were reported. The former PUK co-leader faces charges under Article 56 and 406 of the Iraqi Penal Code.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Sulaimani Court announced on Friday that Lahur Sheikh Jangi and other defendants arrested during Thursday night’s clashes have the right to appeal any judicial decision and to appoint legal representation.
Salah Hassan, spokesperson for the Sulaimani Court, told Kurdistan24 that according to Article 56 of the Iraqi Penal Code, two stages of investigation would normally apply to Sheikh Jangi and the other accused before referral to the court.
“Had Lahur Sheikh Jangi and his associates surrendered without confronting the police and security forces, they would have been prosecuted solely under Article 56. But now, as a result of the violent events which left three people dead and 19 injured, the investigation will also proceed under Article 406,” Hassan explained.
He stressed that “every defendant enjoys protected rights before the court. During trial, Lahur Sheikh Jangi and the others can submit objections to the verdict and secure defense lawyers.”
Dr. Hirsh Saeed, Deputy Director General of Health in Sulaimani, confirmed to Kurdistan24 that 19 members of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) forces were injured in the Lalezar clashes. They were transferred to Sulaimani Emergency Hospital where they received full treatment.
“By this morning, all the injured are in stable condition and there is no risk to their lives,” Saeed said, emphasizing that the wounded belonged to security forces and that no civilians were among
The developments follow a night of armed confrontation between PUK forces and fighters loyal to Lahur Sheikh Jangi. The clashes centered on the Lalezar Hotel in Sulaimani, which served as Sheikh Jangi’s main headquarters. After several hours of heavy fighting, both Lahur Sheikh Jangi and his brother Polad were arrested.
The violent standoff left the city tense, with casualties reported among PUK security members. The operation has intensified scrutiny over the use of force in executing judicial orders and raised sensitive legal and political questions surrounding the case.
