A sign outside Iraq’s Federal Commission of Integrity headquarters in Baghdad, which continues to lead investigations into corruption and property fraud across the country.
Iraq integrity commission says it recovered more than $17 million in corruption funds
BAGHDAD — The Federal Integrity Commission said Monday it has recovered more than $17 million in funds described as proceeds of corruption, citing expanded coordination with judicial, oversight and international bodies.
In a statement, the commission said it retrieved $17,438,620 through cooperation with foreign authorities in line with existing agreements and laws. It said its Recovery Department has stepped up work with the Global Operational Network of Law Enforcement Authorities to share information on corruption cases, smuggled assets and suspects wanted by Iraqi courts, with the aim of speeding international follow-up and asset recovery.
The commission said it has opened a secure channel on the goAML platform used by the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Office to better track suspicious financial movements outside Iraq and facilitate cooperation in corruption-related financial cases. It also launched a dedicated portal within the Orr electronic platform to receive tips on smuggled funds and data on individuals wanted in corruption cases.
According to the statement, the commission has begun using the Foreign Ministry’s ICASS electronic support system, which provides access to data on Iraqis residing abroad, to bolster efforts to track fugitives and take legal and administrative action. It said it now has direct access to Interpol databases and related case files, improving its capacity to follow wanted individuals and pursue stolen assets.
The commission added that it has expanded cooperation with the Civil Status, Passports and Residence Directorate to allow immediate access to information on wanted persons.