Iraqi justice minister dismisses Taji Prison director over security breach following inmate video leak

BAGHDAD — Iraqi Minister of Justice Khaled Shwani has dismissed the director of Taji Central Prison after a leaked video circulated on social media showing several inmates allegedly threatening officials from within the prison.

In a video recording, one of the inmates from Taji Prison expressed anger over the poor quality of food and lack of essential services within the facility. Addressing the Iraqi government directly, he stated, “By God, we will come for you. Is this what you call a reformatory prison? This is a ruin. I swear, we will get out, and we will come for you, and we will cut off your heads.”

According to a statement from the Ministry’s Media and Government Communication Department, a special investigative committee was dispatched to the site. “The committee successfully seized the cell phone used in the incident and launched an investigation into how the device was smuggled into the prison hall,” the statement revealed.

In addition to removing the prison director, Shwani ordered legal measures against those responsible for smuggling the phone into the prison. He also directed that criminal charges be filed against the inmates involved.

“The Ministry of Justice is determined to strengthen oversight in correctional institutions and prevent any security or administrative breaches that compromise the prison system’s integrity,” Shwani stated.