Iraqi intelligence agency dismantles "dangerous" terrorist network in Baghdad

Shafaq News/ The Iraqi National Intelligence Service has dismantled a "dangerous" terrorist network in a large-scale operation in Baghdad, an official statement said on Sunday.

The agency's statement described the operation as "one of the most successful intelligence operations," noting that it led to the apprehension of a network planning to execute suicide bombings targeting various populated areas including Arbaeen processions, police stations, security checkpoints, and public markets in the Iraqi capital.

The statement explained that the operation was connected to a previous maneuver conducted on February 26, 2023, in collaboration with the Counter-Terrorism Service. The February operation had resulted in the neutralization of 22 extremist fighters in the Anbar desert, west of the country, and had set the stage for identifying new targets and unveiling the now-dismantled network.

"After meticulous field surveillance of its movements, all its members were arrested," the agency said, emphasizing that the suspects had confessed to affiliations with "terrorist gangs" and had undergone intensive training on manufacturing explosive devices and belts, and handling explosive materials, all in preparation for their suicide missions.

The authorities have not yet disclosed further details about the individuals arrested or the broader network they were allegedly connected to.