Iraqi soldier arrested for stealing air conditioners from Hussayn shrines in Dhi Qar

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A patrol unit under the Dhi Qar Directorate of Police arrested a Ministry of Defense soldier attempting to steal air conditioners from Hussayn shrines set up along the route between Najaf and Kirkuk, authorities said. The suspect, who was driving a Mercedes DB-type vehicle, was taken into custody along with three stolen air conditioners recovered during the operation. The detainee was referred to the Anti-Crime Unit under the Directorate of Police for the completion of investigation procedures, according to the statement. The suspect is expected to be handed over to judicial authorities for prosecution. No further details about the soldier’s rank or the value of the stolen equipment were immediately available. The shrines, established along a major pilgrimage road linking Najaf and Kirkuk, are maintained by local caretakers and host travelers crossing between the two provinces.