Corruption and Crime Expected to Rise in Basra City After British Troop Withdrawal

As 4,000 British troops prepare to leave Basra city later this year, a top-ranking British officer has warned that corruption and crime are expected to increase significantly in the region. The Contingency Operating Base at Basra International Airport will be handed over to the US Army, who will oversee the Iraqi Security Forces as they take control of the city. Despite progress made by the British military, a core element of corruption and criminality remains at the heart of the city, and experts fear that this will worsen when the British leave.

Key Takeaways:

• Corruption and crime are expected to increase significantly in Basra city after the British troop withdrawal, with a top-ranking British officer warning that crime is likely to become an increasing problem in the region.
• The Iraqi police have a reputation for corruption, with one soldier claiming that they have sold brand new vehicles given to them by the British military.
• The US Army will have a tough task when taking over from the British, with some soldiers expressing concerns about the likelihood of rocket attacks and disruption of Iraqi security forces' progress.
• Soldiers from the Queens Royal Hussars and Royal Artillery have been training the Iraqi Army to counter the threat of terrorist attacks, but experts fear that hard-core terrorist elements may still pose a threat.
• Basra city is expected to be handed over to the Iraqi Army in a relatively stable condition, but concerns remain about the long-term security of the region.

Statistics:

• 4,000 British troops are scheduled to leave Basra city later this year.
• The Contingency Operating Base at Basra International Airport will be handed over to the US Army.
• The US Army will oversee the Iraqi Security Forces as they take control of the city.
• 30 brand new Nissans were delivered to the Iraqi police, but were sold by the chief of police.
• Japanese and Iranian investors have pledged millions of pounds into the infrastructure of Basra city.
• Shell is set to spend more than £3 billion on oil and gas in the region.

Sources:

• Birmingham Post: Exclusive interview with Major Simon Champken, from 26th Regiment Royal Artillery.
• Birmingham Post: Quote from Bombardier Alistair Thomson, a Guard Commander for the West Midlands Gunners.
• Birmingham Post: Information on the US Army's takeover of the Contingency Operating Base.
• Birmingham Post: Statistics on the number of British troops to leave Basra city.