Erbil market traders demand justice following revelation of arson perpetrators

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Shopkeepers in Erbil's Qaisary market have called upon the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to administer severe punishment to those responsible for the recent market fires.

Their demands follow the Iraqi Interior Ministry's announcement on Monday that two of the arsonists behind the incidents in Erbil and Duhok are affiliated with the PKK and associated with units of the Peshmerga’s 70th unit and Counter-Terrorism Unit in Sulaimani, sparking outrage among Kurdistan Region citizens.

Read More: PKK-trained operatives behind market fires in Erbil, Duhok, Kirkuk: investigations revealed

"We, as market traders, were quick to recognize that the fires in Erbil's markets were not ordinary occurrences but had sinister motives behind them. With the backing of the Kurdistan Regional Government, we believe justice will prevail," expressed one shopkeeper.

"We demand not only punishment but also compensation for the damages caused. The government must ensure that such criminals do not escape justice."

Echoing similar sentiments, another affected shopkeeper lamented, "These individuals and groups deserve harsher penalties than mere imprisonment. They have not only destroyed my livelihood but also impacted over 1,000 other families. Our prime minister must ensure that justice is served swiftly and decisively."

"We see the prime minister as our protector, and we urge him to stand up for us," emphasized a third shopkeeper. "The market is not just a commercial hub but a historical landmark dear to our hearts. Its destruction has shattered countless lives."

Detailing the personal losses suffered, another shopkeeper stated, "The fire has inflicted $45,000 worth of damage on my business alone. I implore the Kurdistan Regional Government to deliver justice swiftly. What wrong did we, simple Kurds from humble backgrounds, commit to deserve this?"

Vowing collective action, another shopkeeper affirmed, "We will file complaints against the perpetrators responsible for the fires in Erbil, Kirkuk, and Duhok without delay. We extend our gratitude to the prime minister and the Iraqi government for apprehending the culprits."

Highlighting the widespread impact, yet another shopkeeper added, "The fire has caused damages totaling $80,000 for me personally. We urge the Kurdistan Regional Government to seek justice on behalf of the 228 affected shopkeepers. The market represents the heart of Erbil, affecting the livelihoods of numerous families."

The sentiments voiced by these shopkeepers reflect a unified call for justice and restitution in the wake of these devastating acts of arson, underscoring the resilience and solidarity of the community in Erbil.