Liquor is flowing freely again in Mosul, Iraq, since the city was liberated by coalition forces.
Up to 1,000 customers a day visit the lone liquor store that recently opened its doors after ISIS fighters gave up their stronghold on the war torn city.
The first post-ISIS liquor store is doing brisk business. But the store caters to men only.
Up to 1,000 customers a day at Mosul's first post-Islamic State liquor store https://t.co/DCyR3q4acY pic.twitter.com/iNK4I5PrqA
— Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) May 16, 2017
Liquor was banned when the city was under jihadi rule. Even so, liquor never completely disappeared from homes. But anyone caught drinking suffered severe consequences. Violations were punishable by beheading.
“I feel so relieved. It’s cheaper and we want it cheaper,” said a frequent customer.
“I was afraid. I would drink and by 11:00 pm leave my friend’s house & drive home,” said another customer.
The shopkeeper is keeping a low profile and the nondescript storefront bears no signage. But there is no shortage of customers in the liquor store.
Photo by Wathiq Khuzaie/Getty Images
