Karak:Amman Jordanian security forces have apprehended three suspects linked to a recent deadly gun attack on a church in the southern Karak governorate, according to an official statement.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the suspects were captured in an abandoned house following a raid by security forces. The attack, which occurred on Friday at Hamoud Church during a funeral, resulted in the deaths of nine attendees and injuries to 25 others.

Government spokesman Mohammad al-Momani announced that the suspects, who fired upon security forces during the raid, were neutralized, captured wounded, and taken into custody. The authorities also recovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition at the scene.

Public Security Director Obaidallah Maaytah revealed that the attack was not premeditated but rather opportunistic. The suspects, two of whom are brothers and the third their brother-in-law, reportedly acted on extremist ideologies. They fled in a vehicle that was later seized and linked to them. Security operations included extensive searches and the use of drones to track the suspects.

The suspects were found after security forces divided a village into sectors and searched abandoned homes. They were arrested following an armed confrontation and are currently hospitalized under treatment before being questioned.

Interior Minister Mazin AlFarrayeh emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, with efforts to uncover any planning, incitement, or facilitation related to the attack. He highlighted the importance of addressing the roots of extremism and hate speech to confront terrorism effectively.

Following the incident, King Abdullah II asserted that those responsible for terrorism would face justice. Jordan observed a three-day national mourning period with flags at half-staff in government buildings and public institutions.