Special to WorldTribune.com

BAGHDAD — Iraq has launched a purge of its security forces.

Officials said the government of  was targeting corruption in Iraq’s security forces. They said dozens of officers suspected of taking bribes were being dismissed.

“This marks efforts to reform and rebuild Iraq’s security institutions,” Al Abadi said.

On Dec. 1, Al Abadi ordered the dismissal of 24 senior officials of the Interior Ministry. The prime minister said the purge was part of a campaign to rebuild Iraq’s security forces as well as the ministry.

A day earlier, Al Abadi disclosed that the military was paying salaries to 50,000 fictitious soldiers. The prime minister said the corruption reached all four services in the military.

“New officers were appointed as part of the drive to reform the security apparatus and improve its efficiency in confronting terrorism,” Al Abadi said.

Officials said the corruption investigation would reach every part of the government and armed forces. They said most of the military and security command was being replaced.

“This weeding-out process will extend beyond the military to all state institutions,” Rafid Jabouri, the prime minister’s spokesman, said.

  Iraq confirms corruption in all four services, purges security agencies, WorldTribune.com