Baghdad:The Baghdad Operations Command has taken decisive action by closing and removing 21 metal-smelting furnaces and arresting 17 individuals responsible for these operations on the Rusafa side of the city.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a committee formed under Diwani Order 241285, aimed at reducing environmental pollution from gas emissions and odors linked to production processes, conducted thorough inspections of unlicensed factories, workshops, and metal-smelting furnaces.

In collaboration with the National Security Service, the Rusafa Environmental Police, municipal departments, the Baghdad Environmental Authority, and the Bab al-Sheikh Police Station, the committee successfully closed and dismantled the furnaces. These facilities were operating without proper authorization, violating environmental regulations, and posing significant health and safety risks to citizens. The 17 owners of these illegal operations were apprehended in the Bab al-Sheikh area.

The Baghdad Operations Command noted that the individuals have been transferred to the relevant authorities for legal proceedings.