Iranian arrested in Anbar over shooting of Iraqi driver in fare dispute

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi security forces have arrested an Iranian national in connection with the killing of an Iraqi driver on the highway between Baghdad and Anbar province, a security source said. The incident occurred after the Iranian traveler was turned back at the Sukur checkpoint while attempting to enter Rutba district in Anbar. According to the source, the suspect began arguing with the driver, identified as Adel Abdullah Mohammed al-Fahd al-Nimrawi, over the transport fare as they returned toward Baghdad. The dispute escalated into a physical altercation, during which the Anbar-born driver was killed. The suspect continued toward Baghdad after the shooting and was later identified and apprehended at an entry checkpoint in Karbala by security personnel, the source said. Authorities said legal proceedings have been initiated and the Iranian national will be referred to the judiciary. The source added that the investigation remains ongoing and the case file will be forwarded to the relevant judicial authorities. No further details were immediately available.