Iraq offers amnesty to security personnel who fled IS offensive
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 30 April 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Iraq offers amnesty to security personnel who fled IS offensive, 30 April 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5565ba629.html [accessed 30 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
April 30, 2015
Iraq has offered an amnesty covering security personnel, who fled or abandoned service when the Islamic State (IS) extremist group overran large areas north and west of Baghdad last year.
A statement issued by Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office on April 30 said the amnesty covers those who fled, were absent, or harmed themselves to avoid service, providing they return to their units within 30 days.
The statement said the amnesty excludes those who committed offences including crimes against state security, corruption, and abuse of influence.
Some security personnel had shed their uniforms and abandoned vehicles, weapons and other equipment when an IS-led offensive swept through Iraq last June.
Iraqi security forces have since regained significant territory with backing from progovernment paramilitaries, a U.S.-led coalition, and Iran.
Based on reporting by AFP and pmo.iq
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
