Iraqi authorities have arrested members of what is being called the largest drug trafficking network in Baghdad. 

The Karkh Investigation Court announced that the operation led to the seizure of 221 kilograms of narcotic pills. 

The network, which included 10 individuals, featured members of foreign nationalities and was dismantled by the Karkh Anti-Narcotics Directorate.

This significant bust follows a recent ruling by the Central Criminal Court in Baghdad. On August 6, 2024, the court sentenced six people to death for their roles in an international drug trafficking ring. 

These individuals were caught with 30 kilograms of crystal meth, which they intended to distribute in Iraq and smuggle into Gulf countries. 

The court's decision was based on the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Law No. 50 of 2017, which imposes severe penalties for drug trafficking, production, and cultivation of narcotic substances outside legal bounds. 

The arrests and sentencing reflect ongoing efforts by Iraqi authorities to combat the growing problem of drug trafficking and its impact on the region.

Drug trafficking has become a major challenge for Iraq as the country shifts focus from combating terrorism to addressing the escalating drug crisis. 

Recent anti-drug operations have highlighted the severity of the issue. In Diwaniyah province, a significant operation early Wednesday resulted in the death of a major drug dealer and injuries to another suspect and the Director of Drug Affairs.