Head of Iraq’s Border Ports Authority, Lieutenant General Omar Adnan Al-Waeli, issued directives to enhance the flow of passengers, goods, and trucks at border crossings during a field visit to Safwan crossing in Basra. In parallel, he announced the largest Um Qasr port seizure campaign in recent months, involving intercepted shipments of medicines and electronic devices. The actions align with government directives to strengthen border control while supporting national economic stability.
Directives to enhance movement at Safwan border crossing
According to the authority’s statement, Al-Waeli conducted an inspection tour at Safwan border crossing to review operational procedures and workflow.
He emphasized accelerating entry procedures and simplifying processes in line with directives from Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zeidi to modernize border operations.
Key objectives of the directives
- Speed up passenger and cargo processing
- Improve coordination among border agencies
- Address operational obstacles on site
- Raise efficiency and enforce discipline
Field monitoring and obstacle resolution
The visit included evaluation of on-ground procedures and coordination mechanisms among agencies operating within the crossing.
Al-Waeli stressed the importance of identifying bottlenecks and resolving them promptly to ensure smooth and efficient movement.
Largest Um Qasr port seizure campaign
In a decisive inspection at Um Qasr port, Al-Waeli led a surprise operation that resulted in the seizure of large quantities of prohibited and improperly declared goods.
Officials described it as one of the most significant anti-smuggling operations in recent months.
Seizure of medicines and medical supplies
Authorities confiscated substantial quantities of human medicines, including paracetamol tablets and ampoules, vitamins, oxygen inhalation devices, and medical equipment.
The shipments were concealed within containers among low-value goods to evade customs duties, taxes, and mandatory health approvals.
Seizure of electronic devices
The operation uncovered containers loaded with more than 15,000 mobile phones and tablets, along with over 2,000 Apple-brand headphones.
The devices were hidden using fraudulent documentation and concealment tactics to bypass customs regulations.
Additional violations discovered
Inspectors also found a training aircraft container that had remained unclaimed for over five months, exceeding legal clearance deadlines.
Other seized items included vehicles below permitted model year standards, dismantled vehicles, spare parts, and motorcycles.
Legal measures and enforcement
Al-Waeli confirmed that legal actions will be taken against the seized goods and responsible entities in coordination with relevant authorities.
He reiterated that no tolerance will be shown toward smuggling networks or attempts that threaten Iraq’s economy or public safety.
Strengthening border oversight nationwide
The authority stated that intensified inspection campaigns will continue across all border crossings.
The goal is to transform ports into efficient transit hubs that simultaneously support trade and prevent illicit activities.
Broader government strategy
The measures are part of a broader oversight campaign aimed at:
- Tightening control over border entry points
- Preventing smuggled goods from entering the country
- Enhancing revenue collection
- Supporting the national economy
Balancing facilitation and enforcement
Al-Waeli emphasized that border modernization must combine streamlined trade procedures with strict regulatory enforcement.
He noted that direct field presence has contributed to uncovering serious violations and improving compliance standards.
Impact on economic protection
The operation demonstrates:
- Strong institutional coordination
- Active field supervision
- Protection of public health and finances
- Deterrence of organized smuggling networks
Conclusion:
Al-Waeli’s directives at Safwan and the large-scale Um Qasr port seizure campaign illustrate Iraq’s dual strategy of facilitating legitimate trade while intensifying anti-smuggling enforcement. By improving operational efficiency and cracking down on illegal imports, the Border Ports Authority aims to safeguard public health, enhance customs revenues, and protect the national economy from illicit practices. Continued oversight and inter-agency coordination remain central to sustaining these gains.
