National Security Announces Dismantling of Extensive Crude Oil Smuggling Network in Muthanna

The National Security Service announced today, Friday, the dismantling of a criminal network specialized in the theft and smuggling of crude oil in Muthanna Governorate. The service uncovered these operations, which were carried out through one of the strategic oil pipelines, seizing two breaches in the pipeline and hidden pipes buried underground for approximately 270 meters. The operation began with precise intelligence information received from the Basra and Muthanna security directorates, indicating suspicious activity related to crude oil theft. Following thorough verification and intelligence-based and field matching, follow-up operations commenced from the capital Baghdad, reaching Muthanna Governorate. Tactical team detachments identified the location where smuggling operations were being carried out and the individuals involved. After completing evidence collection and obtaining the necessary judicial approvals, security forces raided the targeted site. The raid resulted in the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of vehicles used for transporting the stolen oil. Investigations revealed that a farm near the route of the strategic oil pipeline, which extends from southern Iraq towards Haditha and is linked to the oil transfer system to the north of the country, had been used as a secret den for these operations. The seizure operation revealed two breaches in the main pipeline and the extension of other hidden pipes buried underground for 270 meters, leading into the farm. It was also discovered that the perpetrators had modified trucks designated for cement transport to use them for crude oil transport, in an attempt to camouflage their activities. Preliminary investigations indicated that the proceeds from these theft and smuggling operations amounted to approximately 500 million Iraqi Dinars monthly. Technical examination, based on signs of corrosion at the breach sites, showed that the breaches had existed for a long time, suggesting the continuity of these criminal activities. In coordination with the relevant oil authorities, the two breaches were immediately addressed, sealed, and the pipeline secured. Statements and confessions of the suspects were recorded, and they were referred to the competent legal authorities for necessary action.