Iraq mobilises security college students for Arbaeen return operation

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Interior Ministry said on Sunday that its forces are continuing a return operation to help pilgrims travelling home after the Arbaeen commemoration of Imam Hussein, with security college students playing a key role in the deployment. Ministry spokesman Colonel Mohammed al-Hasun said the Border Forces Command has mobilised 400 vehicles of various types to transport visitors and ease the return traffic. He said students from the Higher Institute for Security and Administrative Development and the Police College, along with cadets from the Commissioner Candidates Institute, are taking part in the ministry's security and organisation plan for the mass pilgrimage. According to the spokesman, the students are working alongside other ministry units in the field to secure pilgrims, regulate traffic flow and provide guidance and assistance. Al-Hasun said the future officers and personnel have shown dedication in carrying out the assignment. The Arbaeen marking, observed 40 days after Ashura, draws millions of pilgrims each year to the holy city of Karbala.