Baghdad announces crackdown on drug trafficking, gangs in Maysan
Security file in Maysan governorate has become a priority for the Iraqi government following assassinations, armed tribal conflicts, organized crime and drug trafficking.
A wave of assassinations in Maysan province has led Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi to establish a special operations command.
Kadhimi, who is also commander in chief of armed forces, visited this southern province bordering Iran on Feb. 9 and met with Maysan’s security services chiefs.
Ahmed Abu Ragheef, a member of Saraya al-Salam, which is affiliated with the Sadrist movement, was assassinated Feb. 9, in addition to Judge Ahmed Faisal on Feb. 6, and an Interior Ministry officer on Feb. 3. The high-profile incidents, combined with drug trafficking and armed tribal conflicts, prompted the country’s National Security Agency chief to dismiss Maysan’s security director on Feb. 8.
A three-day tribal conflict in Qal'at Saleh District caused a public protest demanding the dismissal of Maysan’s Governor Ali Douai, who has been in office for more than 12 years.
