In a devastating incident that claimed the lives of 107 people at a wedding in the northern Iraqi town of Qaraqosh, authorities have taken decisive action by sacking several officials for what they describe as “grave negligence.”
‘Capacity to hold 400 guests’
The tragedy unfolded in a wedding hall, originally designed for a maximum capacity of around 400 people. Still, on the fateful night of September 26, it accommodated over 900 attendees, according to Interior Minister Abdel Amir Al-Shammari, who confirmed the fire was accidental.
Footage of the horrific incident
The scale of the tragedy has stirred public outrage, prompting swift action from Iraqi authorities. Those dismissed from their positions include the mayor of Qaraqosh, the municipal director, the head of tourism and recreation division, an electricity official, and the chief of firefighting and security in Nineveh province’s Civil Defence Corps. The Civil Defence chief is also slated to face a disciplinary committee.
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Interior Minister Shammari cited “failures in the exercise of their duties” and negligence as the reasons behind the officials’ dismissals. As Iraq mourns the loss of these lives, these measures underscore the government’s commitment to accountability and safety in public spaces.
