Iraqi authorities free two former officials in Baghdad raid

Iraqi authorities have freed two former government officials from their kidnappers in a special operation in Baghdad.

According to a statement from the Iraqi National Security Service, the security operation was launched in Baghdad within 48 hours and resulted in the release of the two officials, the Iraqi News Agency reported.

Authorities also arrested eight suspects involved in the kidnapping and other crimes, based on intelligence information and close field surveillance.

The Baghdad operation led to the seizure of weapons and forged documents belonging to an outlawed armed group at the location where the hostages were held. Authorities said the suspects have criminal records.