Iraqi intelligence shuts down illegal weapons sales on social media

BAGHDAD, September 12 — Iraq’s Intelligence Agency announced on Tuesday it had arrested a group suspected of selling illegal weapons via social media, and subsequently shutdown the related pages.

In a statement received by 964, the agency said:

In accordance with the honorable Minister of Interior’s directives, which involve monitoring and tracking individuals engaged in selling weapons contrary to regulations, our intelligence agency observed pages on social media managed by unknown individuals who were offering various weapons for sale to citizens without adherence to regulations or licenses. This phenomenon contributed to the spread of organized crime, an increase in assaults against citizens, and a rise in tribal disputes.

A specialized intelligence and technical team was immediately formed to investigate and locate these online platforms. Our teams successfully apprehended the group, accessing them through these social media pages, leading to their arrest and the closure of their electronic platforms.

The suspects provided statements, openly admitting to owning these pages and using them to promote the sale of unlicensed weapons. They have been referred to the relevant authorities in preparation for their appearance before the judiciary to face appropriate legal action.

The Intelligence Agency urges all citizens to report any unlawful activities across Iraq by calling the toll-free hotline at 144.