Armed forces affiliated to the KDP, the ruling party in southern Kurdistan (northern Iraq), launched an operation covering the villages and hamlets in the Amadiya district of Duhok two days ago, RojNews reported on Monday.

According to the report, as many as 80 people have been taken into custody in the wake of raids in several locations in Şêladiz, Sersing and Dêralok areas.

Peshmerga fighters are reported to be among those detained in the operation.

While no official statement has been made to provide details on detentions, local sources say that those targeted were opposed to the Turkish invasion attacks on the region. The aftermath of the detainees, one of whom was identified as peshmerga fighter Eli Pinyanishi, remains unknown.

The mass arrest operation comes at a time of increasing reactions to the KDP-Turkey partnership in crime.