Human trafficking unit in Najaf foils attempt to sell child for 75 Million Dinars

NAJAF – The Directorate for Combating Human Trafficking and Organ Trade in Najaf announced early Sunday the arrest of an individual attempting to sell a child for 75 million Iraqi dinars ($49,800) in the Sahla area of Kufa.

In a statement, the Directorate said the unit “successfully apprehended an individual attempting to sell a child for 75 million Iraqi dinars ($49,833 USD) in the Sahla area of Kufa through a well-executed sting operation. The suspect has been referred to the judiciary to face justice.”

Authorities emphasized their ongoing commitment to combating human trafficking and urged citizens to report any suspicious activity to aid in protecting vulnerable individuals.

On July 16, 2024, Iraq’s Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of 345 individuals involved in human trafficking over the first six months of the year.

Speaking to Al-Sabah Newspaper, Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Muqdad Miri emphasized the government’s heightened focus on combating human trafficking. “The ministry has launched major campaigns to tackle and reduce human trafficking crimes, resulting in the arrest of 345 suspects over the past six months,” Miri said.

The anti-trafficking efforts are guided by Iraq’s Law No. 28 of 2012, known as the “Anti-Human Trafficking Law.” This legislation is aimed at preventing trafficking, protecting victims, and prosecuting offenders while ensuring legal safeguards for society.

Under Article 7 of the law, penalties for organ trafficking include prison sentences of up to 10 years and fines ranging from 10 million Iraqi dinars ($7,645 USD) to 25 million Iraqi dinars ($19,113).