Iraqi security forces seize drug factory in Sulaimani province

Authorities have indicated that the facility was established under the oversight and assistance of new leaders within the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

The drug factory in the village of Awbari, located in the Maydan sub-district near Sulaimani’s Darbandikhan district. (Photo: Directorate General of Counter Terrorism)
The drug factory in the village of Awbari, located in the Maydan sub-district near Sulaimani’s Darbandikhan district. (Photo: Directorate General of Counter Terrorism)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iraqi security forces have uncovered a large drug manufacturing facility in the village of Awbari, located in the Maydan sub-district near Sulaimani’s Darbandikhan district, according to a Thursday announcement from the Kurdistan Region Directorate General of Counter Terrorism.

The factory, reportedly involved in producing the illegal drug Captagon, contained approximately two tons of the substance along with specialized equipment used in its production. Captagon, a potent amphetamine, has been linked to drug trafficking and abuse across the Middle East.

Authorities have indicated that the facility was established under the oversight and assistance of new leaders within the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). Sources suggest that Sulaimani officials made deliberate efforts to downplay the discovery, avoiding significant media coverage and wider public discussion.

The seizure of the factory highlights ongoing concerns about drug production and trafficking in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, where officials continue to grapple with the implications for public safety and regional stability.

No further details have been released regarding the arrests or additional suspects involved in the operation. However, investigations are reportedly ongoing.