Iraq arrests two in Baghdad counterfeit dollar operation

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Federal Intelligence and Investigations Agency said two people were arrested in Baghdad for counterfeiting U.S. dollar banknotes, and that a printing press and related materials used in the operation were seized. In a written statement, the agency said the operation was carried out under the supervision of the Deputy Minister for Intelligence Affairs and targeted counterfeiting crimes and the resulting damage to the national economy. It said the necessary judicial authorizations were obtained from the investigative judge at the Court of Corruption, Money Laundering and Economic Crimes. According to the statement, a specialized intelligence team monitored the suspects' movements and gathered information before security forces coordinated an ambush in the area, leading to the arrests. Counterfeit U.S. dollar notes, a printing press and equipment used in counterfeiting were recovered from the suspects. The agency said legal proceedings have been initiated against both suspects and they have been referred to the competent judicial authorities. No further details were immediately available.