Iraq arrests five Asian nationals for alleged illegal border crossing

WASIT — Iraq’s Border Guard Command announced Saturday the arrest of five individuals of Asian nationalities who attempted to cross into the country illegally through Wasit governorate.

In a statement, the command said the arrests were carried out by the 1st Regiment of the 20th Border Brigade. The statement added that legal procedures have been initiated against the detainees.

Earlier this month, Iraq’s National Security Service said it had foiled two of the country’s largest attempts to smuggle foreign nationals, detaining 194 people in operations in Diyala and Kirkuk governorates.

The country relies on Labor Law No. 37 of 2015 and the Foreigners’ Residence Law No. 118 of 1978, requiring foreign workers to obtain valid passports, entry visas, and permits.

Iraqi authorities have initiated a nationwide crackdown on foreign nationals violating residency regulations, resulting in the arrest of hundreds of individuals.