The headquarters of the Federal Commission of Integrity in Iraq.
Integrity Commission forms team to investigate exam booklet smuggling attempt
BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Federal Commission of Integrity announced Friday the formation of a specialized team to investigate the circumstances surrounding an attempt to smuggle 61 sixth preparatory examination booklets through Baghdad International Airport, including seven allegedly containing completed answers.
The commission said the team has begun efforts to determine how the booklets left official custody, trace their movement and identify any individuals or entities connected to the incident before referring findings to the judiciary. Its involvement stems from its mandate to promote integrity in state institutions and prevent violations that could undermine institutional accountability.
A customs seizure report dated June 10 states that a search of the traveler’s luggage in the departures hall uncovered materials marked “circulation outside the Ministry of Education is prohibited.” The items included 51 blank examination booklets, seven booklets registered to a student allegedly containing answers, three blue examination booklets, two student fingerprint forms, seven absentee student forms and eight sealing stickers used for examination booklets.
Education Minister Abdul Karim al-Abtan had directed an “immediate and urgent investigation” following an emergency meeting Thursday night, and the ministry sought to reassure students and parents that the seized booklets were not related to the current 2025-26 academic year examinations.
Parliament’s Education Committee member Haider al-Mutairi described the incident as “another resounding crime” affecting the integrity of Iraq’s education system, saying the seven booklets with answers belonged to a student he described as a “VIP,” suggesting the student has connections to someone in power.
The incident comes during Iraq’s nationwide examination season, when authorities enforce extensive security measures including temporary internet shutdowns during examination hours and strict controls on the handling and transport of examination materials.