ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - An explosion, caused by a gas leak, in Sulaimani city, led to the death of four people and injury of nine others, according to the governor.
An explosion in Kaziwa neighborhood collapse a house whose owner had invited relatives before the LPG tank on the house leaked and exploded. The building completely collapsed, according to initial reports.
Sulaimani Governor Haval Abubakir confirmed to reporters at the scene that the blast was caused by a gas leak, adding that four people were died and nine others were injured. He added that number of casualties is increasing as many people are believed to be trapped under debris.
Saman Nadir, spokesperson for Sulaimani health directorate, later said that two members of civil defense units were also injured.
Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani said in a statement that he has tasked Abubakir to "carry out a detailed and quick investigation" about the incident and provide the victims with "anything they need."
President Nechirvan Barzani expressed his condolences in a tweet to the families of the dead and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) described the incident as "horrific."
This is a developing story…Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the horrific gas tank explosion in Sulaymaniyah that resulted in many casualties. We pay condolences to the families of those who died, wish the injured a speedy recovery, and salute rescuers for their relentless efforts. pic.twitter.com/zm7e8H6rnw
— UNAMI (@UNIraq) November 17, 2022
