Clashes broke out in Sulaymaniyah city of the Federated Kurdistan Region following the arrest warrant issued for Lahur Sheikh Cengi, former co-chair of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and leader of the Popular Front. While intensive measures were taken around the Lalezar Hotel where Cengi's residence is located, clashes broke out between the parties after a short while. 

 

At aroun 03.00 am in the morning, clashes took place between Cengi's forces and security units for about 4 hours. After the clashes, Cengi and his brothers Polad Sheikh Cengi and Aso Sheikh Cengi were detained. It was stated that Polad Sheikh Cengi was captured wounded. 

 

HE WAS SUSPENDED FROM THE PARTY 

 

Lahur Sheikh Cengi was expelled from the PUK and later founded the political movement called the Popular Front (Berey Gel). The movement won two seats in the Kurdistan Parliament elections on 20 October 2024. 

 

The reason for the arrest warrant issued against Cengi has not yet been officially announced.