Iraqi security forces in Anbar on Sunday arrested two drug dealers in possession of one million Captagon pills. 

The Interior Ministry spokesperson Miqdad Miri, announced that the arrests were the result of a specialized task force formed under the directives of the Director General of Narcotics Affairs.

The operation represents a notable effort in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the region.

The two suspects were apprehended red-handed and are now in detention by judicial decision, awaiting their trial to face appropriate legal consequences. 

Iraq has significantly escalated its campaign against drug trafficking, resulting in the issuance of death sentences to 13 individuals and life imprisonment for 17 others last week.

The arrests highlight the country's intensified efforts to tackle the growing use and trade of narcotics, in collaboration with neighboring countries.

The Iraqi Ministry of Interior has made substantial progress this year, dismantling 230 drug networks, including 27 international ones. 

This follows last year's arrest of over 19,000 individuals, with more than 150 being international traffickers. The ministry has also seized about two tons of drugs, mainly Captagon from Syria and crystal meth from Afghanistan via Iran.

Miri emphasized the extensive work and international cooperation involved, comparing the fight against drugs to the battle against terrorism. 

He stressed the ministry's vigilance against drug smuggling attempts, which have become a major crime driver in Iraq.

Iraq's geographical location, bordering Syria, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, has transformed it from a transit route into a significant drug consumption market. 

The Gulf countries, especially Saudi Arabia, remain primary destinations for smuggled Captagon. 

In recent months, Iraq has arrested thousands and issued harsh sentences, including 70 death penalties for convicted drug criminals, as part of its broader strategy to eradicate the drug trade, estimated to be worth billions of dollars.