Man arrested in Kirkuk over alleged sexual assault attempts on minor girls

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A man was arrested in Hawija district in Kirkuk province over allegations of sexual harassment and attempted sexual assault against minor girls, a security source said on Monday. According to the source, security forces received reports that an unidentified individual riding a motorcycle had carried out harassment and attempted assaults against girls in several areas of Hawija. A joint security team was formed to investigate the incidents. Investigators reviewed surveillance camera footage and gathered information that led them to identify the suspect and determine his location. He was apprehended in an operation and taken into custody. The source said the suspect confessed to the allegations during initial questioning. He was referred to the competent judicial authorities for legal proceedings, and the investigation remains ongoing. No further details were immediately available.