Iraq dismantles major internet smuggling network in Baghdad, minister says

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Communications Minister Mustafa al-Sand announced the dismantling of one of the largest networks involved in unauthorized bundled and satellite internet services in Baghdad. The minister said the operation, carried out jointly with the National Security Advisory, resulted in the arrest of those involved, including the network's primary suspect. Equipment belonging to the network, which was based in Baghdad's Eizamiyah district, was confiscated during the raid, according to al-Sand. The minister said the unauthorized bundled and satellite internet service had been resold to citizens and companies, causing annual public losses exceeding 100 billion dinars. Al-Sand added that other identified networks will be dismantled and their members detained in the near future. No further details on the scale of the confiscated equipment or the number of additional suspects were immediately available.