On July 13, 2025, a peaceful civilian protest in the Werte subdistrict of Soran ended in tragedy when Hassan Abdulrahman, a father of five from the village of Sernaws, was shot and killed by security forces affiliated with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). The shooting was carried out under the direct orders of Saman Omar, the current Director of Soran Asayish (internal security), who personally oversaw the use of live ammunition against unarmed demonstrators.
The protest had been organized by local residents demanding essential public services—namely electricity, clean water, and municipal maintenance—after months of severe neglect. Citizens had blocked the Hamilton Road as a form of nonviolent civil disobedience. Rather than addressing the grievances, Asayish and KDP-aligned militias responded with lethal force. Eyewitnesses and viral video footage circulating on social media confirm that the security forces opened fire on demonstrators without provocation.
Hassan Abdulrahman was struck and killed on the spot. His body was later transferred to the Soran Forensic Medical Office for official examination, then released to his family. No investigation has been announced. No arrest has been made. And the individual responsible—Saman Omar—continues to occupy his official position with complete impunity, shielded by his political affiliations.
Under Article 15 of the Iraqi Constitution, every citizen has the right to life and security. Article 333 of Iraq’s Penal Code criminalizes acts of physical harm or killing by public officials under the guise of authority. This killing also violates international human rights law, including Iraq’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
Despite these legal protections, the reality in the Kurdistan Region reveals a deeply entrenched culture of impunity, where political allegiance to the ruling parties—particularly the KDP—ensures that crimes by state-affiliated forces are not prosecuted. It is unlikely that Saman Omar will ever face justice, as his actions are effectively sanctioned by the current political power structure.
The Dakok organization for Rights and Freedom unequivocally condemns the killing of Hassan Abdulrahman as a gross violation of human rights and the rule of law. We call for:
The immediate suspension and criminal prosecution of Saman Omar and all involved.
An independent and transparent investigation into the killing and the suppression of protestors.
The establishment of civilian oversight over security forces to prevent further abuses.
This tragic event highlights the urgent need for reform. Citizens calling for water and electricity should not be met with bullets. The lives of innocent people must never be sacrificed to preserve political power. Unless justice is served, the credibility of the Kurdistan Region’s governance and its commitment to law will remain in question.
Dakok Organisation for Rights and Freedom
14 July 2025 – Soran, Kurdistan Region of Iraq
