Sunday, July 12, 2026

Hidden in a storm drain: Iraq uncovers another $10m in oil corruption scandal

 Iraqi authorities have made significant progress in a corruption investigation linked to the oil sector, uncovering large amounts of hidden cash and detaining numerous officials.

1. Discovery of Funds: Investigators found 14 billion Iraqi dinars (about $10 million) in a stormwater drainage pit. This is the latest finding connected to former Deputy Oil Minister Adnan al-Jumaili, who has been in custody for a month on corruption charges.

2. Total Seizures: The ongoing investigation has resulted in the recovery of 127 billion Iraqi dinars (approximately $24 million), as well as properties, vehicles, and gold.

3. Additional Arrests: Hussein Talib, the director general of the Oil Products Distribution Company, was arrested before he could become a member of parliament. Over 50 people have been detained, including MPs and government officials.

4. Identifying More Officials: Al-Jumaili has reportedly implicated other officials in corrupt activities, and authorities are pursuing one of the largest corruption cases in Iraq’s recent history.

5. International Efforts: Authorities are searching for two businessmen accused of fleeing the country with around $500 million, with Interpol involved in the case.

6. Public Support for Action: Former Iraqi MP Yasser al-Husseini emphasized the public's strong backing for the anti-corruption efforts, stating that the government must continue to hold all responsible parties accountable.

The investigation reflects a broader drive to combat corruption in Iraq, with the potential to reshape public trust in the government if successfully carried out. 

https://www.newarab.com/news/iraq-finds-10m-hidden-storm-drain-oil-corruption-probe

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