Iraq anti-corruption operation entered a new phase on Sunday after Iraqi authorities took custody of eight suspects in Erbil. Officials transferred the group to Baghdad to face legal proceedings linked to corruption investigations. The latest move marked another major step in the country’s widening campaign against alleged corruption.
According to security sources, a delegation from Iraq’s Federal Commission of Integrity received the suspects at the Sherawa checkpoint between Erbil and Kirkuk. Investigators from the commission’s Kirkuk office joined the transfer process. Meanwhile, Kurdistan Region security authorities handed the detainees over before the team continued toward Baghdad.
Furthermore, security officials said the eight suspects had remained in custody in Erbil before the transfer. Authorities carried out the operation under legal procedures as investigators continued expanding the nationwide crackdown.
A security source in Kirkuk identified three of the suspects as lawmakers Ziad al-Janabi, Mohammed al-Mayyahi, and Ashwaq al-Jubouri. The same source said the remaining five detainees served as members of their security details.
However, another security source in the Kurdistan Region presented a different account. That source said the other five detainees held senior government positions instead of working as security personnel. Authorities have not yet clarified the differing reports.
Nevertheless, officials continue moving forward with legal procedures despite the conflicting information. Investigators are expected to review the evidence and determine the next judicial steps after the suspects arrive in Baghdad.
The transfer came only hours after authorities launched one of Iraq’s largest anti-corruption campaigns in recent years. Earlier on Sunday, Iraqi security forces arrested dozens of people during coordinated operations across Baghdad and several provinces.
Security and judicial sources said authorities detained 47 officials, lawmakers, and businessmen during the nationwide campaign. The large-scale operation targeted individuals facing corruption-related allegations. Investigators coordinated the arrests across multiple locations within a short period.
Moreover, the campaign reflects Iraq’s continued efforts to strengthen accountability and address corruption cases involving public officials and influential figures. Officials have repeatedly pledged to pursue legal action regardless of political status.
The Iraq anti-corruption operation has attracted widespread public attention because of its scale and the high-profile names involved. The campaign also highlights growing efforts to reinforce oversight and strengthen anti-corruption institutions across the country.
Meanwhile, authorities have not released additional details regarding the specific charges against each suspect. Officials also have not announced court dates or confirmed when hearings will begin. Investigators are expected to provide further updates as legal proceedings continue.
As the investigation moves forward, Iraqi authorities continue coordinating between federal institutions and regional security agencies. That cooperation remains essential as officials pursue additional suspects and gather more evidence.
The Iraq anti-corruption operation continues to develop, and authorities are expected to announce further information as the investigation progresses.
