Authorities seize 15kg of crystal meth in Basra

BASRA, January 23 – Security forces in Basra apprehended a suspect on Tuesday in possession of 15 kilograms of crystal meth, according to a statement from the Interior Ministry’s press office.

The arrest took place following a confrontation during which the suspect attempted to escape, sustaining injuries in the process.

The ministry’s statement read:

Under the direct supervision of the minister of interior, Maj. Gen. Ahmed Al-Zirkani, director general of the [Interior Ministry’s Directorate for] Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, announced the confiscation of 15kg of crystal meth and the arrest of a suspect who attempted to escape. During the confrontation with the security force, the suspect suffered injuries in Basra governorate.

Iraqi authorities are continuing a crackdown on illicit drug trade across the country, with domestic consumption increasing amid higher rates of trafficking.