Millions of dollars buried underground found in Iraq corruption raid

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi judicial authorities seized millions of dollars in cash buried underground during a corruption investigation targeting public officials, officials said. The inquiry was launched over allegations of financial crimes involving state employees. The funds, described as millions of U.S. dollars, were found concealed beneath the soil and placed under custody as part of the corruption case, according to the authorities. The Baghdad-based operation is part of broader efforts to combat financial crimes, the statement said. Judicial officials said further details and the names of those under investigation would be released as the inquiry progresses. No additional information was immediately available on the specific agencies involved or the exact amount recovered.