News

Challenges worsen in Iraq, Ministry of Interior admits

The New Region

Jul. 14, 2024 • 2 min read
Image of Challenges worsen in Iraq, Ministry of Interior admits Photo shows interior ministry personnel displaying an arrested individual for possession of drugs, light and medium weapons and hand grenades in Karbala province. (Photo: Ministry of Interior Facebook)

During a half-yearly review, Iraqi Ministry of Interior, highlights ongoing challenges with corruption, bribery and overall security.

Despite efforts by the Iraqi Ministry of Interior, a statement on Sunday highlights ongoing challenges over the past six months, including persistent issues with bribery, forgery, and overall security.

During a half-yearly conference, ministry spokesperson Miqdad Miri nonetheless said, "Numerous achievements have been realized under the guidance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani and Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari." 

A security operation two days ago, which resulted in the deaths of two terrorists, underscores the ongoing threat of terrorism despite intelligence efforts. The Counter-Terrorism Service remains heavily engaged, necessitating continuous operations and clashes with insurgents.

The ministry executed 34,979 arrest warrants and destroyed 131 ISIS hideouts, but these extensive operations highlight persistent security challenges. Large-scale seizures of explosives, weapons and drugs further illustrate ongoing smuggling and trafficking issues.

The Organized Crime Unit executed 29,251 arrest warrants and seized significant quantities of drugs and weapons, reflecting widespread criminality. The interception of numerous oil smuggling operations points to systemic issues in controlling illegal trade.

Drug enforcement efforts, despite seizing 1,822 kg of drugs, show a troubling 4% increase compared to the previous year. The arrest of 7,705 individuals for various crimes, with 72 death sentences handed down, underscores a high crime rate.

Increases in suicide rates by 6% and high levels of crime indicate persistent societal issues. Border security challenges remain, with extensive measures needed to prevent 459 infiltration attempts.

Federal Police and Rapid Response Forces are continuously combating high crime rates, evidenced by numerous arrests and substantial seizures of weapons and narcotics. 

The Civil Defense Directorate reported 5,544 fires despite a 40% decrease, indicating ongoing fire safety concerns.

Traffic Directorate statistics reveal systemic issues, with over 1.8 million violations despite a decrease, reflecting ongoing compliance problems. The anti-corruption campaign, resulting in the dismissal of 320 policemen and 36 officers, highlights persistent corruption within the ranks.

The conference essentially showed that while some successes are reported, persistent and widespread challenges underscore the need for ongoing efforts to address these critical issues.

Profile picture of The New Region
Author The New Region

NEWSLETTER

Get the latest updates delivered to your inbox.