Baghdad: The National Center for International Judicial Cooperation announced the arrest of key members of organized criminal networks with direct influence in the Kingdom of Sweden, in response to a formal legal request from Swedish authorities.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a statement by the Judicial Council indicated that the arrested members of the gang are: Ali Shihab Ahmed, responsible for transportation and strategic support; Jalal Draid Azzouz, deputy leader of the gang; Fadi Draid Jalal, district manager; Ahmed Alaa Fawzi; and Al-Baraa bin Salah Bourqaa. They belong to the Kurdish Fox gang. The arrests were made after obtaining the necessary judicial approvals in Iraq, in coordination with the Iraqi Intelligence Service, and based on joint cooperation and coordination between the National Center and the Swedish Public Prosecution Service.

Furthermore, Judge Ali Hussein Jafat, head of the National Center for International Judicial Cooperation, stated that “international cooperation in this case is ongoing and effective,” adding that the accused are considered dangerous individuals listed on Europol’s list of most wanted fugitives, making their prosecution a high judicial priority.

For their part, Swedish media outlets and agencies praised the arrest, expressing their gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of the Iraqi judiciary and the success of this bilateral cooperation. This reflects the National Center’s commitment to providing international legal assistance and the continuation of joint work between the two parties, especially since the Center has previously received several requests for legal assistance from the Kingdom of Sweden.