Iraqi Forces Seize One Million Narcotic Pills in Major Drug Bust

Iraqi security forces announced a significant blow to drug trafficking within the country on Monday, revealing the successful dismantling of a drug network and the confiscation of 1 million narcotic pills in Baghdad. The operation was spearheaded by a unit under the Defense Ministry’s director-general of intelligence and security, acting on precise intelligence that led to a traffickers’ hideout in the capital.

During the raid, security personnel uncovered approximately 1 million pills of the narcotic Captagon, a powerful stimulant, intended for smuggling out of Iraq. The DGIS did not disclose details regarding the arrests of network members involved in the operation.

This major seizure comes at a time when Iraq is grappling with the ramifications of prolonged conflict and turmoil, following the US invasion in 2003. These conditions have historically hampered the efforts of Iraqi administrations to effectively combat the drug menace within its borders.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani emphasized the critical nature of the fight against drug trafficking earlier in May 2023. He highlighted the connection between drug dealing and the financing of terrorism, underscoring the challenges faced by the country in curbing the spread of narcotics amidst ongoing security issues. Al-Sudani’s administration has labeled the battle against drugs a pivotal component of its wider strategy to ensure national security and stability.