Iraq Seizes 1.1 Tons of Captagon in Major Crackdown on Drug Trafficking Network

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a significant escalation of Iraq’s war on drug trafficking, the Ministry of Interior announced on Sunday the seizure of 1,100 kilograms of Captagon pills and the arrest of a major drug trafficking network operating across regional borders.

The operation, hailed as a landmark success in Iraq’s intensified anti-narcotics efforts, underscores the growing regional cooperation aimed at dismantling organized crime syndicates fueling the illicit drug trade.

Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Muqdad Miri revealed details of the operation during a press briefing on Sunday, highlighting the government’s commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes under the leadership of Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.

“Specialized operations continue with full dedication by those who have sworn to make Iraq drug-free, under the strong leadership of Prime Minister Al-Sudani and with the unwavering support of Minister of Interior Abdul Amir Al-Shammari. The ministry has significantly advanced its capabilities in drug enforcement, utilizing modern technology, evolving strategies, and unprecedented intelligence-sharing with regional and international anti-narcotics organizations,” Miri stated.

Joint Iraqi-Saudi Intelligence Operation Leads to a Major Seizure

This latest success came as a result of intelligence provided by Saudi Arabia’s Drug Enforcement Administration, which played a crucial role in identifying the smuggling network responsible for trafficking massive quantities of Captagon into Iraq.

The operation was meticulously planned and executed, with judicial approvals secured from the Al-Rusafa Court of Appeal to ensure a legal framework for the crackdown.

The General Directorate of Narcotics Control, in collaboration with counter-narcotics directorates in Erbil and Sulaimani, tracked a truck that had entered Iraq from Syria via Turkey.

Authorities intercepted the vehicle, which was found to be carrying 1.1 tons of Captagon pills—one of the largest drug seizures in Iraq’s history.

Multiple individuals involved in the smuggling operation were arrested, and the trafficking network was dismantled following an extensive and highly classified intelligence pursuit.

Iraq’s Battle Against the Rising Drug Threat

The seizure comes at a time when Iraq is grappling with an increasing influx of narcotics, with Captagon—a highly addictive amphetamine popular in the Middle East—becoming one of the most trafficked drugs in the region.

Long known as a transit hub for drug smuggling between Asia and Europe, Iraq has seen an alarming rise in domestic consumption, prompting authorities to intensify their fight against organized drug networks.

Captagon, often referred to as the “poor man’s cocaine,” is widely consumed among militant groups and criminal organizations, as it is known to enhance aggression and endurance.

The proliferation of the drug has had severe social consequences, with Iraqi officials citing its role in fueling crime, violence, and addiction, particularly among the country’s youth.

The government has significantly ramped up its anti-narcotics efforts in recent years, launching a series of crackdowns that have led to record-high seizures and arrests. However, security officials acknowledge that Iraq remains vulnerable due to its porous borders and proximity to Syria, which has been described as a primary production hub for Captagon trafficking across the Middle East.

A Unified Effort to Combat Organized Crime

Miri emphasized that the success of this operation is a testament to Iraq’s growing cooperation with regional and international partners in combatting drug trafficking. “This collaborative effort highlights our unified goal of protecting Iraq from the scourge of narcotics. We will not allow criminals to destroy our communities,” he stated.

The Ministry of Interior has reiterated its commitment to continuing intelligence-led operations and strengthening partnerships with Gulf states and international law enforcement agencies to dismantle drug syndicates.

As part of this effort, Iraqi authorities have been working closely with neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Turkey, to improve border security and intercept illicit shipments before they reach major cities.

The latest Captagon seizure marks a significant milestone in Iraq’s ongoing war against drugs, demonstrating the government’s increasing capability to disrupt major trafficking networks.

While the fight against narcotics remains a formidable challenge, Iraq’s security apparatus is proving that it is determined to combat the growing drug trade and safeguard the country from the devastating impact of organized crime.