Baghdad:An attempt to smuggle oil derivatives has been successfully thwarted by the Maritime Intelligence Directorate, resulting in the arrest of the crews of two boats in Iraqi territorial waters.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Maritime Intelligence Directorate announced on Wednesday that this operation was a significant security effort showcasing the vigilance and readiness of the directorate. The Intelligence and Security Department at the Umm Qasr Naval Base, part of the Maritime Intelligence Directorate, conducted the operation as a branch of the Military Intelligence Directorate.

The operation followed careful monitoring and tracking of suspicious activities by two boats suspected of conducting illegal operations in the maritime area. The naval intelligence forces intercepted the boats, seizing one loaded with petroleum products and arresting the crew members. This action is part of ongoing efforts by the Directorate of Naval Intelligence to combat smuggling networks and protect Iraqi territorial waters and national resources from illegal exploitation.