Babil police arrest two suspects during a major crackdown on counterfeit currency in Hilla. The operation targeted a network accused of circulating fake U.S. dollars and Iraqi dinars. Authorities seized large sums of forged cash along with weapons and ammunition. Officials say the case highlights ongoing efforts to fight financial crime in Iraq. Babil police arrest two suspects after weeks of surveillance and intelligence tracking in central Babil.
Security forces acted on intelligence reports that pointed to a structured counterfeiting network. Officers monitored the suspects before moving in for the arrest. They confiscated $50,000 in fake U.S. currency, all in $100 bills. They also seized 25 million Iraqi dinars in counterfeit 25,000-dinar notes. A Colombian-made handgun and seven rounds of ammunition were also recovered during the raid.
Investigators from the Organized Crime Directorate led the operation with support from intelligence and counterterrorism units. They coordinated surveillance efforts across Hilla to track movements linked to the suspects. Officials believe the group attempted to distribute fake currency in local markets. Babil police arrest two suspects again becomes central to recent efforts targeting organized financial crime in the region. Authorities stressed that careful monitoring helped prevent wider circulation of the fake money.
Similar cases have appeared across Iraq in recent months. In Dhi Qar, security forces seized more than $50,000 in counterfeit dollars in April. In Basra, officials dismantled a forgery ring involving three suspects, including a foreign national. Kirkuk authorities also arrested a man carrying $10,000 in fake currency, who later admitted cross-border involvement. These cases show a broader regional pattern of currency-related crime.
Officials report that counterfeit currency cases have dropped significantly in recent years. The Interior Ministry previously stated a decline of up to 90 percent in such crimes. They credited stronger intelligence work and tighter judicial enforcement. The expansion of electronic payment systems also helped reduce reliance on physical cash. Babil police arrest two suspects in this case reflects continued pressure on remaining criminal networks.