Iraq’s Department of Corrections investigating video alleging extortion at Amarah prison

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Department of Corrections said Saturday it has launched an investigation into allegations raised in a circulating video showing inmates at Amarah Central Prison accusing the prison administration of extortion.

In the widely shared video, several inmates appear with their faces covered, accusing staff of extorting money in exchange for services allegedly provided outside the law, including access to mobile phones and visits.

The department said “the necessary measures have been taken to verify the clip” and that “a specialized ministerial investigative committee has been formed from the ministry’s center to investigate the details of the matter.”

The committee “has begun its field work and will submit its report and recommendations to the minister within 24 hours, in preparation for taking the necessary administrative and legal measures against those found negligent,” according to the statement.

The department said it “will take the maximum legal measures against any negligent person proven to be involved, and refer all those whose names appear in the investigation to the competent courts.”

It added that “the results of the investigation will be announced within 24 hours, in commitment to the principle of transparency and to strengthen citizens’ trust in state institutions.”