Iraqi forces arrest suspects in hidden-camera extortion ring in eastern Baghdad

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi security forces carried out raids in Sadr City, a sprawling district in eastern Baghdad, targeting a network accused of sexually and financially blackmailing women through hidden cameras used during occult and fortune-telling sessions. A security source said simultaneous operations were conducted at multiple addresses linked to the alleged sorcery and divination activities, leading to the arrest of several suspects, some of whom were wanted by authorities. Officers seized more than six hidden cameras that the suspects had installed to record their victims, along with hundreds of intimate photos and videos belonging to the women. Investigators said the material was used to extort money and sexual favors from the victims. Officials said the detained suspects are being interrogated and that the operation could be expanded depending on the progress of the investigation. No further details were immediately available.