Saudi authorities have arrested Major Omar Nizar, an Iraqi officer wanted in connection with the deadly 2019 Al-Nasiriyah massacre, while he was performing the Umrah pilgrimage in Makkah, a source told Shafaq News yesterday.
Nizar, a member of Iraq’s Quick Response Forces (QRF), had been convicted in absentia for his role in the massacre and sentenced to life imprisonment. However, Iraq’s Chief Justice Faiq Zeidan overturned the sentence, citing insufficient evidence, and ordered his release.
Saudi security forces detained Nizar, referring his case to the kingdom’s state security. The 2019 Al-Nasiriyah massacre, which took place in Dhi Qar’s capital, saw the systematic killing of protesters. Approximately 85 people were killed and 400 were wounded over two days of violence.
🇸🇦🇮🇶 Saudi Authorities Arrest Iraqi Lieutenant Colonel During Umrah
Saudi security forces have arrested Iraqi Lieutenant Colonel Omar Nizar while he was performing Umrah. The Saudi Public Prosecution has referred him to State Security.
According to reports from Iraqi netizens,… pic.twitter.com/JufCmmXi2k
— DD Geopolitics (@DD_Geopolitics) October 7, 2024
Nizar’s arrest reignites focus on the brutal crackdown, which led to the resignations of several senior Iraqi officials, including Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi. Despite the high-profile resignations, the violence continued, deepening unrest in the country.
It has also been speculated that Nizar’s arrest may have been triggered by a TikTok video allegedly filmed by him during Umrah. In the video, he is reportedly heard praying for victory for factions within the Axis of Resistance, including a supplication for Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who was assassinated by Israeli forces late last month.
READ: 100 Iraqi newborns named ‘Nasrallah’ after Hezbollah leader’s assassination