Iraq's National Security Office says 301 suspects detained in June

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's National Security Office said 301 suspects were detained in June as part of eight separate security and judicial operations across the country. The agency said 26 of those held were suspected of terrorism offenses, 57 of drug trafficking and sale, 101 of blackmail and threats, and 41 of fraud. A further 15 suspects were detained over ties to extremist movements, the office said, while 48 were held on charges of belonging to or promoting the banned Baath Party. Five suspects were arrested on human trafficking charges and eight on smuggling of petroleum derivatives, according to the statement. The National Security Office added that inspections during the same period led to the seizure of 352 tons of expired food products banned from sale, and the closure of 80 commercial outlets found to be in violation of regulations. No further details on the operations were immediately available.