Suspect sold kidneys for 25 million dinar
Iraqi intelligence arrest suspect in black market organ trade
BABIL — Federal Intelligence Agency agents apprehended a suspect in Babil governorate on Wednesday for allegedly trafficking human organs, specifically kidneys.
According to a statement released by the agency, “Intelligence units specializing in organized crime received information about an individual involved in the illegal sale of human kidneys.” The statement continued, detailing the formation of a team to monitor the suspect and gather evidence. “After verifying the information’s accuracy,” the agency said, “a warrant was obtained, leading to the suspect’s arrest.”
The suspect reportedly confessed to selling kidneys for 25 million Iraqi dinars ($19,000) and faces prosecution.
Iraq passed a law in 2012 to combat organ trafficking, however, a 2022 report by The Washington Institute for Near East Policy highlighted ongoing challenges in tackling the issue. The report attributed the rise in organ trafficking to factors like poverty, unemployment, and the influence of militias, which control trade networks. Weak legal frameworks and security institutions were also cited as contributors.