Head of Middle Euphrates Electricity Production Company arrested in corruption probe

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Ali Hamid al-Zaidi, director general of the Middle Euphrates Electricity Production Company, was detained during a security operation at the company's headquarters, along with several employees. The arrests are part of an investigation into alleged corruption and influence networks involving current and former officials, contractors and influential figures in the Middle Euphrates region, according to unnamed sources. The inquiry covers contract and maintenance work as well as fuel management, incomplete projects, and procurement and supply agreements. Sources said the case file also includes allegations of commissions and bribery that caused public financial losses. The company operates and maintains power stations in Babil, Karbala, Najaf and Diwaniyah, with partial coverage in Maysan. The allegations have placed the company under scrutiny at a time when the region continues to face persistent electricity supply disruptions, which the sources said has heightened public attention on the investigation. Officials said the case could expose financial interests and political influence networks within the electricity sector. No further details on the scope of the investigation or potential charges were immediately available.