Violent clashes occured between Muslim residents and Ezidi refugees in a refugee camp in the Kurdish city Akre yesterday. According to first reports a dispute escalated between members of the Kurdish tribe Harky and Ezidi refugees. Tribespeople of Harky attacked the Ezidi refugees in Mamilyan with sticks, and according to unconfirmed reports also with iron bars.

Reports about a murdered Ezidi, can not yet be confirmed. Two Ezidis were, however, seriously injured and are currently being treated at the local hospital. Their health situation is critical, as an EP correspondent in Duhok reported. Other refugees suffered minor injuries. Peshmerga and security forces of the Kurdish autonomous government have meanwhile completely blocked the camp.

Because of security reasons, Ezidis are currently not allowed to leave the camp. The cause of the dispute is unclear as the tense situation is confusing. Allegations that the Ezidis protested against the construction of a mosque in the refugee camp, can not currently be confirmed. Neither the local police nor other authorities have so far commented on the incident. The Kurdish Harky tribe is one of the largest tribes in Kurdistan. Further details are expected to be announced in the coming hours.

ezidiPress