Iraq shuts down three unauthorized digital broadcast networks in Basra

BASRA, Iraq — Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission said it shut down three unauthorized encrypted digital broadcast networks in Basra following coordinated operations with judicial and security authorities. Raids carried out under judicial warrants issued by Basra investigating judges targeted the Oscar network in the Husayniyah district and Zubayr and the Sumer network in Safwan, the commission said. Officials from the Organized Crime Directorate and other security forces took part in the operations. Broadcasting equipment was seized and shut down at the sites, and all devices were handed over to the relevant authorities for legal proceedings, according to the commission. A search was also conducted at the home of a network operator, where equipment was confiscated. During one operation, an unauthorized Starlink satellite communications system was found and surrendered to the authorities. The commission said it would continue monitoring unlicensed digital broadcasting networks and enforce the provisions of Legislative Decree No. 65 of 2004.