Baghdad:The Ministry of Interior has refuted a foreign tourist’s claim that a security officer attempted to steal his personal camera.

According to Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry stated that the claim was based on a clipped video shared on social media. An investigation, including a review of surveillance footage, showed the tourist tried to enter a non-passenger area with his camera. Security officers asked him to turn off the device since photography is prohibited there without prior authorization.

The surveillance footage confirmed the tourist left with his camera, unharmed and unconfiscated, and continued to document his journey in Baghdad. The Ministry disclosed that the incident took place two weeks ago and that the tourist edited and shared the video after leaving the country to avoid legal consequences.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to professional conduct by its security personnel and warned that legal action would be taken against those who falsely accuse or mistreat security staff.