Iraq Martyrs' Foundation uncovers over 22,000 fraudulent beneficiary files

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The head of Iraq's Martyrs' Foundation, Abdul-Ilah al-Naili, said extensive audits have uncovered more than 22,000 fraudulent files of claimants registered as beneficiaries of the institution. Al-Naili said the fake files resulted in improper payments totaling 3.2 trillion Iraqi dinars. He added that the foundation's administration has prepared a detailed report on the matter and that legal action will be taken against those responsible. According to al-Naili, the fraudulent entries were inserted into the foundation's beneficiary records and had been used for years to obtain payments to which the recipients were not entitled. The audits were conducted by cross-checking internal records against data held by relevant state agencies. The foundation chief said steps will also be taken to protect the rights of legitimate beneficiaries once the irregularities are resolved. The matter is being coordinated through the foundation's central office in Baghdad, where financial statements are being reorganized. Officials said the investigation is continuing and that final figures will be confirmed in the foundation's concluding report.