Basra: The National Security Service (NSS) thwarted a massive smuggling operation of more than 110,000 tons of sulfur through Umm Qasr Port on Friday. A National Security Service statement revealed that “National Security Service detachments in Basra Governorate succeeded in thwarting a massive smuggling attempt of sulfur through the southern Umm Qasr Port, resulting in the seizure of massive quantities estimated at approximately 110,000 tons and the arrest of 15 suspects.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the operation was initiated after receiving accurate intelligence information indicating an attempt to smuggle large quantities of sulfur outside Iraq. The NSS promptly verified this information by contacting the State Oil Products Organization (SOMO) in Basra, which confirmed the absence of any official approvals for the export of the material.

Based on a judicial order, National Security detachments moved to Umm Qasr Port, in coordination with the Border Ports Authority and the Iraqi Navy, to intercept a ship carrying approximately 10,000 tons of sulfur intended for smuggling. The operation extended to the headquarters of the implicated company, resulting in the seizure of 16 additional trucks loaded with sulfur inside containers en route to the port.

During the search of the company’s headquarters, the NSS team discovered a warehouse belonging to the implicated company containing an additional 100,000 tons of sulfur intended for smuggling, bringing the total seized to approximately 110,000 tons. The efforts culminated in the arrest of 15 suspects, and document examinations confirmed the absence of official permits from relevant authorities to export this strategic material, confirming the smuggling attempt.

The operation underscores the National Security Service’s commitment to protecting the Iraqi economy and combating smuggling attempts that deplete the country’s resources. The export of sulfur is subject to strict legal controls and is only permissible through official channels.