Arrests in Dhi Qar corruption, forgery investigation; former Nasiriyah mayor detained

DHI QAR, Iraq — An investigation into alleged corruption, forgery and blackmail in Dhi Qar province has led to the detention of several former officials, including a former mayor of Nasiriyah. Detainees include former Nasiriyah Mayor Kahtan Adnan, a former real estate director, a former city planning director and a former secretary of the Land Distribution Commission, according to investigators handling the case. A source familiar with the inquiry said Ali Fertusi, whose name was added to the investigation list, is a relative of an active leader within one of the city's armed groups. Another source said the arrest warrants were issued by the corruption division of the competent Nasiriyah Investigative Court on suspicion of irregularities, forgery and blackmail in land files. Investigators said seizures during the probe included seals, documents and records related to residential land plots, along with powers of attorney and paperwork alleged to be forged. Communication devices and weapons were also confiscated. Authorities indicated the investigation could extend to additional current and former officials inside and outside Nasiriyah, though no further details were immediately available.