All public employees to be evaluated
Iraq initiates drug testing for 50,000 security personnel
BAGHDAD, January 19 — Iraq’s Ministry of Interior has officially acknowledged that 50,000 security personnel within its ranks have undergone drug testing.
Minister Abdul Amir Al-Shammari disclosed plans for collaborative workshops and a comprehensive program for mandatory drug testing of all government employees.
The Directorate of Narcotics Affairs’ media director, Hussein Al-Tamimi, told the Iraqi News Agency that a joint workshop took place involving the directorate and relevant authorities, in the presence of a judge from the Supreme Judicial Council.
Al-Tamimi said officials were developing a program to test all state employees and identify drug users, with ongoing workshops in the coming days to finalize the program and begin implementation.
He added that a higher committee was tasked with examining all officers, employees, and members of the Internal Security Forces within the Ministry of Interior and that it would require all relevant personnel to to be tested.
Of the 50,000 security personnel examined so far, less than 1 percent reportedly had tested positive for drug use.
The Minister ordered legal action against those with positive tests, mandating their placement in addiction treatment centers. The move aims to facilitate the reintegration of drug users and addicts into Iraqi society post-recovery, allowing them to resume work after rehabilitation and providing a one-month leave period.
Iraq's interior minister says 'no leniency' in fight against drug trade
Four arrested in drug trafficking operation
