Al-Zarkani: Intelligence Operations Continue to Target Drug Trafficking Networks in Iraq

Iraq’s Director-General of Narcotics Affairs, Ahmed Al-Zarkani, confirmed that security forces are continuing intelligence operations to track down drug trafficking networks and curb their activities. He stressed that the fight against drug traffickers remains relentless, with support from the government, the judiciary, and the Ministry of Interior.

Al-Zarkani made the remarks during an inspection visit to security personnel injured in the incident and receiving treatment at the Kuwaiti Hospital in Basra.

Meanwhile, Basra Health Director Abbas Al-Tamimi stated that medical teams had performed surgical procedures on those injured when the suspect detonated a hand grenade while being surrounded by security forces. He confirmed that their health conditions were stable.

The incident occurred near Saad Square in central Basra, where a suspected drug trafficker detonated a hand grenade while being cornered by a joint security force. The explosion killed the suspect and injured an officer and five members of the anti-narcotics force.

In a statement, the Basra Police Command explained that the incident took place during a security operation conducted by the Anti-Narcotics Department to arrest a drug dealer. According to the statement, the suspect pulled out a hand grenade during negotiations with security personnel and detonated it, resulting in his death and injuries to six members of the security force.