Four tons of narcotics seized
Iraqi interior ministry announces arrest of 144 international drug dealers in 2023
BAGHDAD, February 5 — Iraqi authorities arrested 144 international drug traffickers in 2023, as the country grapples with what officials have called an ongoing crisis.
In an interview with Al-Sabah newspaper on Sunday, interior ministry spokesperson Miqdad Al-Moussawi said senior officials are directly overseeing efforts to end the drug trade. Minister Abdul Amir Al-Shammari is directly managing the government’s drug affairs directorate, which has received advanced weaponry, technology, vehicles, and financial support to carry out raids and arrests.
Al-Moussaw claimed the ministry’s proactive measures have yielded results, particularly in targeting international traffickers and local dealers, as well as distinguishing between users and those seeking treatment.
The ministry’s efforts led to the arrest of 144 international traffickers and 19,135 suspects, with over 10,000 convictions. Four tons of narcotics and 15 tons of psychotropic substances were also seized, along with 1,700 firearms and 1,200 vehicles.
“For those [arrested], the sentences vary based on the severity of their crimes, ranging from several years in prison to life sentences and even the death penalty. The intensified campaigns have contributed to a decline in drug trafficking and overall crime levels,” Al-Moussaw said.
Regarding international cooperation, Al-Moussawi called drug trafficking a transnational danger and emphasized the importance of global collaboration, referencing an international meeting held in Baghdad last year that focused on drug control efforts.
Al-Moussawi further highlighted coordination with the Kurdistan Region, including the seizure of 400 kilograms of crystal meth in Sulaymaniyah and arrest of five international traffickers.
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