Iraq's Interior Ministry announced a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking, revealing the seizure of approximately 1.1 tonnes of Captagon pills. This operation, the largest of its kind in the country, involved the interception of a truck that had crossed into Iraq from Syria via Turkey. The successful operation was made possible through intelligence provided by Saudi Arabia's drug enforcement agency, according to Brigadier General Muqdad Miri, spokesperson for the ministry.
Captagon, known for its potent amphetamine-like properties, has allegedly been mass-produced in Syria for several years. Often referred to as "poor man’s cocaine," this addictive stimulant has become a significant concern for authorities in the region.
The seizure included around seven million pills and marks a notable success for Iraqi security forces, who have been actively combating drug trafficking. In a coordinated effort with regional partners, including security forces from the Kurdistan region, the authorities managed to dismantle a smuggling network linked to this shipment. Brigadier General Miri confirmed that arrests had been made, although details regarding the individuals detained remain undisclosed. The operation follows previous efforts to curb illicit drug trade routes along Iraq's border with Syria. Just days earlier, Iraqi officials reported the closure of a major smuggling corridor.