Iraqi security forces announce rescue of kidnapping victim in Baghdad

BAGHDAD — Iraqi security forces announced on Wednesday the rescue of a kidnapping victim and arrest two suspected kidnappers in Baghdad, according to a statement from the General Directorate of Intelligence and Security.

The operation, according to the statement, conducted under the supervision of Defense Minister Thabit Al-Abbasi, was part of ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and ensure public safety.

“Through precise intelligence work and close monitoring, security forces managed to free a kidnapped individual and arrest two suspects wanted under Article 421 related to kidnapping,” the statement read.

The suspects, who had outstanding arrest warrants, were captured in a carefully coordinated operation in one of Baghdad’s districts. Legal measures are being taken against them, and they have been referred to judicial authorities, the statement said.

Similar incidents have occurred in recent months. On Jan. 4, 2025, Iraqi security forces rescued a kidnapping victim within 30 minutes after setting up an ambush in the Kamaliya district in eastern Baghdad, authorities announced on Saturday. The operation also resulted in the seizure of weapons and a Hyundai Elantra vehicle used in the crime.

Earlier, on Jan. 2, 2025, police in Babil governorate announced the successful rescue of a kidnapped girl and the arrest of her captors in a neighboring governorate. The operation, conducted on Wednesday, was described as a coordinated effort between intelligence and security forces.

Last November, security forces in Samarra thwarted a kidnapping attempt and arrested the suspects. The operation also led to the seizure of weapons and vehicles involved in the crime, according to a statement from Samarra Police.