Baghdad: The Ministry of Interior announced the seizure of approximately 2,000 kg of narcotics in the first half of this year. Major General Miqdad Miri, Director of the Department of Relations and Media at the Ministry of Interior, stated in a press conference that the first half of 2026 witnessed an 18% decrease in crime rates compared to previous years.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry confirmed the seizure of 1,977 kg of narcotics during the first half of this year. Additionally, 3,553 individuals were arrested on drug-related charges, with 58 sentenced to death and 236 others receiving life sentences. The Ministry conducted 17 operations outside the country to combat drug trafficking, in cooperation with neighboring and regional countries.

The Ministry also reported the arrest of 289 individuals accused of carrying out tribal attacks, 102 for belonging to extremist religious movements and promoting the dissolved Ba'ath Party, and 50 for antiquities smuggling. Furthermore, 83 individuals were arrested for cyber extortion, 25 for financial fraud, and 52 for human trafficking.

In terms of traffic violations, more than 2,638,000 incidents were recorded during the first half of 2026.