The Iraqi Interior Ministry announced on Tuesday the seizure of ten trucks and the detention of their drivers on charges of smuggling oil derivatives. The operation, conducted by energy police, targeted Baghdad, Babil, Basra, and Diyala provinces.

According to the ministry, legal procedures have been initiated against the ten suspects. If convicted, the individuals face potential prison sentences and fines up to five times the value of the smuggled oil. The ministry did not disclose the intended destination of the smuggled oil.

Oil is the cornerstone of Iraq’s economy, providing the majority of government revenue and funding public sector salaries. Smuggling of oil or its derivatives poses a significant threat to the country’s fragile financial stability.

In September 2024, Iraq exported over 99.3 million barrels of oil at an average rate of 3.2 million barrels per day (bpd), according to the Ministry of Oil’s monthly report. Annual exports for 2023 surpassed 1.23 billion barrels, generating $97.5 billion in revenue—$18 million less than 2022’s record-breaking $115.5 billion.

As the country grapples with economic challenges, the Interior Ministry emphasized its commitment to combating oil smuggling and protecting Iraq’s vital resources.