Joint Iraqi forces have kicked off a security campaign across Basra to crack down on organised crime networks, withdraw unlicensed weapons and eliminate drug trafficking, theft and armed robbery gangs, the Basra provincial council said Wednesday (February 21st).
"Army, Counter-Terrorism Service, intelligence agency, local and federal police forces are taking part in the campaign, which includes raids and searches based on prior intelligence," council vice-chairman Ahmed al-Saliti told Diyaruna.
"Unlicensed medium and heavy weapons will be seized, and drug trafficking and smuggling gangs, as well as thieves and armed robbers will be pursued," he said.
"The campaign will continue until its goals have been realised," he said, noting that it was highly welcomed by the residents.
