Baghdad airport gold smuggling case sparks investigation by Iraq’s Integrity Commission

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Integrity Commission has opened an investigation into a significant corruption case involving the smuggling of 13 kilograms of gold through Baghdad International Airport. The investigation follows an operation by Iraqi Border Forces to prevent the smuggling attempt.

Integrity Commission Chairman Mohammed Ali Al-Lami has directed the commission’s legal department to examine the case, which allegedly involved an Iraqi Airways flight. “Al-Lami directed the legal team to pursue an investigation into the gold smuggling case involving one of the aircraft operated by Iraqi Airways,” the commission said in a statement Sunday.

The statement cited Article 14, Paragraph 1, of the Integrity and Illicit Gains Law No. 30 of 2011 (as amended), which requires investigative judges to inform the commission of corruption cases. “The law requires judges to notify the commission’s legal department when initiating investigations and keep the commission updated on their progress,” the statement added. The commission stressed its right to take over such cases to ensure a comprehensive investigation.

Earlier Sunday, Iraqi Border Forces, working with Customs Police, intercepted a passenger attempting to smuggle 13.7 kilograms of gold bars through Baghdad International Airport. The operation was praised for the “heroism and vigilance” of the security teams involved.

“During routine security checks in the departure lounge at Baghdad International Airport, Customs Police, in collaboration with the General Authority for Customs, foiled a large gold-smuggling attempt,” the Border Forces said. Advanced screening equipment was used to detect and confiscate 13 gold bars totaling 13.7 kilograms.

Authorities filed a formal seizure report, and legal action is being pursued against the suspect. “This operation reflects the commitment of our security agencies to protecting border crossings and combating all forms of smuggling,” the statement added.