Iraqi lawmaker demands probe into 800 trucks at Munthiriya border crossing

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi lawmaker Ghalib Mohammed Ali called on Saturday on the federal government and the Federal Commission of Integrity to open an urgent and official investigation into more than 800 trucks stalled at the Munthiriya border crossing. The lawmaker said the vehicles were being moved without the completion of customs and tax obligations. In a statement, Mohammed Ali said there were findings that the ASYCUDA customs system was not being properly applied at the crossing, a situation that could amount to a breach of current financial and legal procedures. He called on oversight bodies to join the review, examine working procedures and ensure full compliance with customs and tax regulations. The lawmaker also urged legal action against any units found to be involved in corruption or procedural violations, and pressed for greater transparency and oversight in the management of cargo and truck movements at Iraq's border crossings.