Iraq's Interior Ministry is set to take over security responsibilities in Salah al-Din province within the coming weeks and months. According to Hussain Al-Awadi, Deputy Interior Minister, the handover is part of the government's efforts to restore stability and security in the region. Al-Awadi made the announcement during a press conference in Salah al-Din, where he met with local authorities and assessed the security situation.
Al-Awadi highlighted the significant progress made in combating terrorism in Salah al-Din, which was once a stronghold of extremist groups. He noted that the region has now entered a new phase of reconstruction and development. The Deputy Interior Minister also emphasized the ministry's shift in focus from counter-terrorism to combating organized crime, citing notable achievements over the past 100 days.
The Iraqi government has also made significant strides in regulating the possession of firearms. According to Al-Awadi, the Interior Ministry has registered over 6 million pieces of weapons so far and aims to complete the process in the coming months. He stressed that the government's decision to restrict arms to state control is firm and enjoys the support of all security agencies and government institutions.
The Deputy Interior Minister revealed that his ministry is on track to assume security control in all Iraqi provinces within the coming months. This move is part of a broader effort to strengthen provincial security and enhance cooperation between local authorities and the central government.
Al-Awadi also discussed the issue of narcotics, highlighting the ministry's successful operations against smuggling networks. He cited examples of operations conducted outside Iraq's borders, including in Saudi Arabia and at sea. These efforts demonstrate the ministry's capabilities in disrupting international smuggling networks.
The Deputy Interior Minister hinted at an upcoming operation against narcotics smugglers, which he described as "unprecedented" in the region. He emphasized the ministry's commitment to tackling the threat posed by organized crime and its impact on regional security.
The planned handover of security responsibilities in Salah al-Din province and the registration of firearms are part of the Iraqi government's efforts to consolidate stability and security in the country. The Interior Ministry's progress in these areas reflects the government's commitment to improving the security situation and providing better services to citizens.
Key points
- Iraq's Interior Ministry to assume security control in Salah al-Din province within months
- Ministry registers over 6 million pieces of weapons to restrict arms to state control
- Upcoming operation against narcotics smugglers planned in the region
