Iraq’s Ministry of Interior has detained 77 currency speculators and 65 food price manipulators in a nationwide security crackdown over the course of one week, while also seizing 34 tons of expired food.

Major General Miqdad Miri, head of the Ministry of Interior's Relations and Media Directorate, stressed in a statement that the Iraqi Directorate of Combating Organized Crime is sustaining extensive nationwide operations across Baghdad and all governorates to safeguard public health and economic security. 

77 Currency Speculators and 65 Price Riggers Arrested 

Miri noted that between June 16 and June 23, authorities launched legal proceedings against 65 defendants accused of manipulating essential food prices. 

During the same weekly period, the security crackdown led to the arrest of 77 suspects operating as currency speculators and exchange rate manipulators.

Furthermore, operational detachments confiscated 34 tons of expired foodstuffs, resulting in legal action against eight defendants. 

An additional 22 individuals were formally booked during the sweep for various public health violations.

Ministry Vows No Leniency Against Economic Exploitation 

"The Ministry of Interior reaffirms the continuation of its monitoring and inspection campaigns in coordination with competent authorities. It vows to show no leniency toward anyone attempting to exploit citizens, harm their health, or compromise economic stability," Miri emphasized. 

The ministry called on the public to report any legal infractions, highlighting that community cooperation is vital to protecting society and maintaining economic stability.