Baghdad: “He showed me the text messages he received threatening his life. They often were anonymous,” Malek Abdul Hussain told Gulf News.
He was recounting the story about how his friend, Karar Noshi, an Iraqi model and artist, was murdered last month in Baghdad, by Shiite militants — it is believed.
“When you are an Iraqi artist and receive threats you leave the country. Karar refused to leave his beloved Iraq, though knowing if he stayed he would likely be killed,” he said.
Karar came from Hussainiya — an infamous neighbourhood in Baghdad controlled by Shiite militias.
In this neighbourhood, killings and kidnappings are commonplace.
Karar had to drop out of school to support his family at an early age. He worked odd jobs in construction until one day he decided his calling in life was to be an actor.
A colleague of Karar says that when he came to work on Muntanabbi street — a gathering spot for Iraq’s arts community — he was very quiet.
“He did not talk much,” Sarmad told Gulf News.
On this street, Iraqi artists and actors perform short plays.
Although he was quiet, Karar did not go unnoticed.
“He wore colourful scarfs, hats, vintage sunglasses, rings, necklaces and tight pants,” he said.
“People knew he came from a tough neighbourhood so when he came here he had a lot of support — everyone liked him.”
Karar secured some small roles here and there in acting and Sarmad became a father-figure to him.
“We both had long hair, I guess that’s why he came to me first,” Sarmad recalls fondly.
When people on social media started saying Karar should be Mr Baghdad, he shot to fame — but that fame backfired on him.
It was not long before Karar became a target for mockery and he started receiving threats commenting on his effeminate appearance. Many spread rumours that he was a homosexual — a claim Sarmad denies.
Karar posted a video thanking people for their support, but made it a point to stress that he was not worthy of such a title.
“The shoes that Iraqi soldiers wear to fight Daesh are worth more than me,” he said.
But the damage was already done. At the beginning of July, he disappeared.
His body was found in a trash bin on Palestine Street a few days later.
Forensic exams found he was tortured before he was killed. Police have stalled in their investigation but many believe he was killed by Shiite militia members.
Iraqis worry that Shiite militias have been given carte blanche in policing Iraq — especially because of their role in fighting Daesh.
Their growing power worries Sarmad.
“I received text messages saying the same thing was going to happen to me. I try to wear a hat and cover my face when I’m cycling. I am afraid when a car follows me at a slow pace. I constantly look behind me.”
— Quentin is a roving freelance journalist