Peregraf
In a coordinated operation between the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and Sulaymaniyah’s security forces (Asayish), three men have been arrested for their suspected involvement in a UK-linked people-smuggling network.
According to a press release by the Asayish, the arrests took place between January 8 and 12, marking the first collaboration between the NCA and Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) authorities to dismantle high-level smuggling operations. The NCA deployed officers from the UK to assist in targeting individuals accused of facilitating the illegal transportation of migrants to the UK.
The suspects remain in custody and face prosecution under KRI human trafficking laws.
This operation comes in the wake of a historic security agreement signed in November 2024 between the UK, Iraq, and the KRI. The agreement, which focuses on combating smuggling networks and enhancing border security, underscores the growing partnership between the regions to address serious organized crime.
Last November, In a groundbreaking development, the United Kingdom, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) have signed a landmark security agreement aimed at disrupting smuggling gangs and improving border security cooperation. This milestone comes as UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper concluded a three-day official visit to Iraq and the KRI.
Strengthening Ties and Security
Home Secretary Cooper’s visit marked the first by a UK Secretary of State to Iraq since 2021. Accompanied by Border Security Commander Martin Hewitt, she engaged with officials from Iraq’s Federal Government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). Discussions centered on shared security challenges and regional stability, culminating in a series of high-profile agreements.
Key Developments:
• Joint Statement on Border Security: A pioneering agreement to combat people smuggling and strengthen border management, the first of its kind between the nations.
• Capacity Building for Law Enforcement: The UK pledged £300,000 to train Iraqi law enforcement, focusing on organized immigration crime and narcotics.
• Support for the KRI: An additional £200,000 was allocated for KRI border security projects, including the formation of a specialized task force.
• Commitment to Human Rights: Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to upholding international human rights and humanitarian law.
Targeting Organized Crime
The agreement also includes a declaration of intent to address serious organized crimes such as drug trafficking, modern slavery, and illicit finance. Furthermore, £300,000 will be invested in disrupting criminal networks in Iraq and the KRI.
Efforts to counter misinformation spread by smuggling gangs will feature a joint communications campaign to deter illegal migration and highlight the dangers of human trafficking.
Migration from the Kurdistan Region
Irregular migration remains a significant issue in the KRI. Many migrants leave on tourist visas to Turkey before attempting dangerous sea journeys to Europe, often coordinated by smuggling networks.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) recorded 3,041 migrant deaths or disappearances in the Mediterranean in 2023, a sharp rise from 2,048 in 2021.
Data from the KRG reveals that over 5,000 individuals from the region attempted to migrate to Europe in the first seven months of 2024, with 43 deaths reported. Since 2015, nearly 650,000 Iraqis, including many from the KRI, have sought asylum in Europe, with hundreds dying or going missing.