Iraq arrests alleged drug network leader known as 'Abu Shayha' in Maysan

MAYSAN, Iraq — Authorities in Maysan province announced the arrest of a man known by the alias "Abu Shayha," accused of running drug trafficking and distribution networks in the province. The Maysan Anti-Narcotics Directorate said the suspect has more than 15 pending drug trafficking cases against him and that all of his siblings have previously been convicted on similar charges. The suspect was captured along with his brother while hiding in a remote area in the southern Al-Azir district, the directorate said. Officers seized narcotics and weapons from the two men and the location where they were found, according to the statement. The Anti-Narcotics Directorate said the investigation is ongoing and that the detainee will be referred to the judiciary. It added that operations aimed at dismantling drug networks and curbing the related public threat will continue in the province.