Three suspects found in Karak hideout

Jordanian security forces arrested three armed men on Monday after days of searching for the attackers behind a deadly church shooting in the Karak governorate. The suspects were hiding in an abandoned house in the village of Al-Jadeeda. They refused to surrender and opened fire on officers, leading to a three hour exchange before all three were taken into custody.

The Public Security Directorate stated that all three suspects were wounded during the confrontation. One man was in critical condition following the battle. A government source described the injuries as serious. No security personnel were killed or hurt during the operation. Officers recovered firearms and live ammunition from the site.

The shooting occurred on Friday at a Greek Orthodox church in the village of Hamoud. The attack struck a funeral gathering. Three gunmen opened fire on the congregation. Eight people died in the incident. Forty others were injured. The Ministry of Health reported that 27 injured patients remained in hospitals on Monday.

Prince Ali Military Hospital in Karak is treating the survivors. The hospital director said one patient was in critical condition after surgery. The village of Hamoud lies about 120 kilometers southwest of Amman. It is part of the Karak region, which has a large Christian population. Christians make up roughly 300,000 of Jordan's 11.5 million residents.

Government Communication Minister Mohammad Momani praised the security forces for the joint operation. He confirmed on social media that the suspects were injured and detained. The Public Security Directorate issued a statement saying the suspects had met their just fate. It also said terrorism has no place in the country without naming a specific group.

King Abdullah II told victims' families that those responsible would face the harshest penalties. He ordered a review of national security procedures for responding to attacks. Interior Minister Mazen al-Faraya said authorities are examining why young people turn to violence. He added that anyone found to have participated in the attack will be held accountable.