In a significant move against drug trafficking, Iraq’s Central Criminal Court sentenced two individuals to life in prison on Monday after convicting them of drug-related offenses, authorities announced. The defendants were found in possession of 1,460 narcotic pills, which they intended to distribute, according to an official court statement.

The ruling was issued under Article 28(1) of Iraq’s 2017 Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Law, in accordance with Articles 47, 48, and 49 of the Penal Code. This case highlights Iraq’s intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking, particularly amid a sharp rise in the smuggling and use of captagon, a highly addictive stimulant.

In recent years, Iraq has witnessed a dramatic increase in drug seizures. Between 2019 and 2023, authorities reported a staggering 3,380% rise in confiscations, with over 4.1 tons of captagon tablets seized in 2023 alone. This surge in drug trafficking has contributed to a growing domestic drug crisis, with more than 3,300 individuals receiving treatment for addiction in 2022.

To address the escalating issue, Iraq launched its first National Strategy on Narcotics (2023–2025) and hosted the International Baghdad Conference on Drug Control in May 2023. The conference aimed to strengthen regional cooperation and develop comprehensive strategies to tackle drug trafficking and addiction.

The life sentences handed down on Monday underscore Iraq’s commitment to curbing the drug trade and its devastating impact on society. As the country continues to grapple with this challenge, authorities remain focused on enforcing strict penalties and fostering international collaboration to combat the crisis.