Baghdad, Iraq – In a series of intensive operations conducted over the past weeks, the Iraqi Ministry of Interior announced on June 25 the successful capture of numerous drug dealers and suspected terrorists across the country. This milestone achievement marks a significant step towards combating drug trafficking and enhancing national security.
According to an official statement released by the ministry’s intelligence agency, a total of 315 drug dealers and users were apprehended during the week-long raids. The operations, carried out in various provinces including Baghdad, also resulted in the confiscation of 22 kg of narcotic crystal, further crippling the illegal drug trade.
In addition to targeting drug-related activities, the security forces successfully apprehended 83 suspected terrorists. The raids uncovered a significant cache of weapons, with a total of 102 firearms seized. The authorities also dismantled six sites involved in smuggling crude oil and its derivatives, and seized 21 vehicles believed to be connected to criminal activities. These swift and decisive actions have undoubtedly dealt a severe blow to illicit networks operating within Iraq.
The previous week-long operation followed an extensive campaign of raids initiated by the ministry from November 2022 to May 2023. During this period, a staggering total of 8,676 drug dealers and users were arrested. The ministry’s efforts have significantly disrupted drug trafficking activities and reduced the harm caused by drug addiction within Iraqi society.
Moreover, the success of these operations is underscored by the substantial quantity of drugs and weaponry confiscated. Over 406,000 kg of various types of narcotics, including a staggering 9.27 million Captagon pills, were seized during the raids. Additionally, the security forces managed to recover 456 weapons, 118 hand grenades, and confiscated 808 vehicles associated with criminal enterprises. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Iraq has faced significant challenges in combating the threat posed by drugs over the past two decades. The country’s tumultuous history, marred by conflicts and instability following the U.S. invasion in 2003, has hindered previous efforts to address this pressing issue effectively. However, these recent successes indicate a renewed determination by the Iraqi government to tackle drug trafficking and dismantle criminal networks.
The Ministry of Interior’s relentless pursuit of drug dealers and suspected terrorists not only aims to protect Iraqi citizens but also contributes to the broader regional and international efforts to combat illicit activities. By disrupting the illegal drug trade, Iraq is taking decisive steps towards a more secure and stable future.
With the capture of numerous drug dealers and suspected terrorists, and the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics and weapons, the raids in Iraq have undoubtedly delivered a resounding blow to criminal enterprises operating within the country. The government’s commitment to tackling drug trafficking and enhancing national security is evident, marking a promising turning point in Iraq’s ongoing fight against illicit activities.
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