International drug trafficker arrested in Baghdad with 100kg of Captagon pills

"The suspect, identified as a dangerous member of an international drug trafficking network, was apprehended during the operation in Baghdad," the statement detailed.

The official logo of Kurdistan Region's Security Council (KRSC). (Photo: Kurdistan24)
The official logo of Kurdistan Region's Security Council (KRSC). (Photo: Kurdistan24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — A joint security operation between Erbil and Baghdad drug enforcement agencies has resulted in the seizure of 100 kilograms of Captagon pills and the arrest of a high-profile international drug trafficker, authorities announced on Sunday.

The successful operation was carried out on Oct. 30 through coordination between the General Directorate of Anti-Narcotics in Erbil's Security (Asayish) and the Iraqi government's General Directorate of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Affairs, according to an official statement.

"The suspect, identified as a dangerous member of an international drug trafficking network, was apprehended during the operation in Baghdad," the statement detailed.

The raid was conducted after obtaining necessary warrants from both the Asayish investigating judge and the Karkh Investigation Court judge.

The seizure of Captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine-type stimulant, represents one of the larger drug busts in recent months.

The drug has become increasingly prevalent in the Middle East, with trafficking networks attempting to use Iraq as a transit route.

This operation highlights the growing cooperation between Kurdistan Region and federal Iraqi security forces in combating drug trafficking, as well as the increasing effectiveness of cross-jurisdictional law enforcement efforts in the region.