Iraq Dismantles Human Organ Trafficking Network in Baghdad

Iraq’s Federal Intelligence and Investigation Agency has announced the dismantling of a criminal network in Baghdad accused of exploiting low-income citizens through usurious loans and pressuring them to sell their human organs, particularly kidneys, to settle accumulated debts.

In a statement, the agency said the operation was carried out by Organized Crime Combating units in Baghdad’s Rusafa district under the direct supervision of the Deputy Minister for Intelligence and Federal Investigations. The investigation followed intelligence reports indicating that the network lured financially vulnerable individuals with purported loans and cash advances before imposing excessive conditions and using their debts to pressure them into selling their organs.

The agency added that a specialized intelligence team arrested all four suspects, including two women, after obtaining the required judicial approvals. Mobile phones and records documenting the alleged usurious lending activities and negotiations with victims were also seized.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing criminal networks that exploit citizens’ financial hardship and endanger their safety, emphasizing that legal measures will be taken against those involved.