Security forces search for escaped officer facing human trafficking and extortion charges
Suspect escaped custody
Security forces search for officer facing human trafficking and extortion charges
WASIT — Authorities are actively searching for Abbas Zahlula, a security officer accused of extortion and human trafficking, who escaped custody while being transported from Dhi Qar Governorate to Wasit on Jan. 22.
Zahlula, a member of Baghdad’s Law Enforcement Forces, was apprehended over two weeks ago and was under investigation at the Internal Security Court in Dhi Qar. A security source told 964media, “The accused had been handed over to a team from his unit for transport to trial.”
The escape occurred during a lunch break at a restaurant in central Kut. According to the source, Zahlula invited his escort team to dine before excusing himself to use the restroom. Instead of returning, he fled the scene with the help of a waiting Hyundai Elantra.
Following the escape, the escort team was immediately detained for questioning. Authorities are currently reviewing surveillance footage from the area to trace Zahlula’s movements.
On Jan. 24, the Wasit Police Command released a statement distancing themselves from the incident. “The fugitive, Abbas Zahlula, is not affiliated with Wasit Police. We did not arrest or transport him,” the statement read.
Another security source clarified that Zahlula was initially held at a disciplinary prison in Wasit after his detention by the Federal Investigation Agency. His unit was subsequently notified, and a team comprising an officer and several personnel was dispatched to escort him to his trial in Dhi Qar. The trial had been postponed, necessitating his return to Wasit. The source added, “On the way back, the escape took place. At no point was he under the jurisdiction of Wasit Police beyond temporary custody.”
Authorities have confirmed that Zahlula is subject to approximately 15 arrest warrants. Multiple security agencies, including Wasit Police, are collaborating to locate him.