Iraq Detains 67 Suspects in Initial Anti-Corruption Sweep

Iraq’s Prime Minister, Ali Al-Zaidi, affirmed his administration’s commitment to the ongoing anti-corruption campaign and the recovery of public funds. This statement coincided with the announcement that 67 suspects had been detained within the first 24 hours of the operation targeting hundreds accused of corruption.

Al-Zaidi described the current phase as the “first round” of actions, promising further steps and measures to follow. He emphasized the government’s goal to reclaim public money and to ensure that weapons remain under state control.

In a speech delivered during a cabinet session and published by the Iraqi News Agency "WA," Al-Zaidi declared that the government will pursue anyone involved in stealing public funds. He urged those holding public money to return it, stressing that “the people’s money must be returned to its owners.”

He also stated that he would not tolerate any wrongdoing or neglect in defending the interests of the Iraqi people. Al-Zaidi underscored that no corrupt official within his government would enjoy immunity. He expressed his readiness to make sacrifices for the country’s benefit, clarifying that his focus is on addressing unacceptable conditions rather than seeking re-election or renewal of his position.

Separately, a security source revealed on Monday that the number of detainees in the anti-corruption campaign launched by Iraqi authorities had risen to 67 within the first 24 hours. According to the source quoted by "Shafaq News," the detainees include politicians, members of parliament, and government employees. They were arrested on charges related to financial corruption, public fund misappropriation, and illicit gains.

The source added that several wanted individuals managed to evade capture or went into hiding within Iraq. However, strict security measures prevented any of them from leaving the country.

This arrest tally came roughly 24 hours after the launch of one of the broadest crackdowns on corruption suspects in Iraq in recent years. The campaign has targeted lawmakers, politicians, officials, employees, and business owners, accompanied by heightened security deployments in Baghdad and other provinces.

On Sunday, an informed source told the agency that the first phase of the campaign aims to target more than 200 individuals over 72 hours, as part of a broader six-month effort to combat corruption and recover public funds.

The campaign coincided with the deployment of special forces and counter-terrorism units within Baghdad’s Green Zone, closure of several entrances, and the imposition of strict security checks. Authorities confirmed that arrest warrants are being executed under judicial supervision and in accordance with legal procedures.

Officially, Iraq has detained 47 suspects involved in corruption, including members of parliament and officials.