Kirkuk: Kirkuk Operations Command announced on Saturday the seizure of 163 vehicles loaded with smuggled goods within a period not exceeding 45 days. The Command confirmed that the operation is part of the campaign against corruption and smuggling, and is being carried out in accordance with the directives of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Major General Maad Badai, Commander of Kirkuk Operations, stated in a press release: “Security forces were able to seize 163 vehicles carrying smuggled goods without paying customs duties, after monitoring them as they traveled along unofficial routes used for smuggling.”

He added that the seized goods included a variety of items, and all vehicles and seized goods were handed over to the relevant authorities to take the necessary legal measures. He further explained that these results were achieved within a period not exceeding 45 days since assuming command of the operations, as part of the campaign against corruption and smuggling.

He explained that the main checkpoints in Daraman and Jemen, north of Kirkuk Governorate, fall under the responsibility of the Border Ports Authority and the National Security Service, in addition to the presence of various security agencies and departments, each operating within its jurisdiction.