Iraq Seizes Over Two Tons of Drugs, Arrests More Than 1,500 Traffickers in Major Crackdown

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a significant victory in the ongoing battle against narcotics, Iraqi security forces have seized more than 2.15 tons of drugs and arrested over 1,559 local and foreign drug traffickers during the first three months of 2025, according to official figures.

Adnan Jahishi, head of the Iraqi Parliament’s Anti-Narcotics Committee, described the drug crisis as one of the most pressing challenges facing the country, warning of its profound social consequences. “The drug issue is a serious threat to the fabric of society,” Jahishi said. “What we’ve achieved so far is a major security accomplishment in Iraq.”

He added that dozens of smuggling networks have been dismantled, and four drug production facilities—still in their early stages—have been discovered and shut down. “These criminals aim to undermine social security with the poison they produce,” Jahishi said.

The Iraqi Interior Ministry has reported multiple successes in disrupting drug trafficking. According to ministry data, several tons of narcotics have been seized and dozens of drug dealers apprehended in recent months. In a strong message to international traffickers, the death penalty has been imposed on 130 convicted individuals.

Miqdad Miri, spokesperson for the Iraqi Interior Ministry, highlighted one of the most extensive operations to date: “We seized 1.1 tons of Fenethylline in a single operation, and all individuals involved have been arrested.”

The ministry has announced a dual strategy for 2025, focusing both on targeting and dismantling trafficking networks and rehabilitating drug users to help reintegrate them into society.

As authorities across Iraq intensify efforts to combat the drug trade, officials say the recent gains mark only the beginning of a long-term strategy to safeguard public health and social stability.