HSI Arrests Alleged Former High-Ranking Iraqi Intelligence Officer Who Served Under Saddam Hussein Living in America

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents have arrested Raad Alanbagi after an HSI-led investigation uncovered information tying him to prior service as a high-ranking Iraqi intelligence officer during the Saddam Hussein era.

HSI Detroit announced the arrest in a social media post, stating that special agents discovered information linking Alanbagi to Iraq’s intelligence apparatus during Saddam’s rule.

“HSI special agents arrested Raad Alanbagi after an HSI-led investigation uncovered information tying him to prior service as a high-ranking Iraqi intelligence officer during the Saddam Hussein era.”

.@HSIDetroit gets results.

HSI special agents arrested Raad Alanbagi after an HSI-led investigation uncovered information tying him to prior service as a high-ranking Iraqi intelligence officer during the Saddam Hussein era.

HSI continues to safeguard our communities and… pic.twitter.com/fVQhKvjff8

— Homeland Security Investigations (@HSI_HQ) September 13, 2026

HSI has not publicly disclosed his exact rank, intelligence role, alleged conduct, immigration status, or the charges against him.

The arrest raises serious questions about how an individual allegedly connected to Saddam Hussein’s intelligence services was able to enter and remain in the United States.

Saddam’s regime was responsible for widespread persecution, torture, executions, and other atrocities against political opponents and minority communities. Its intelligence services played a central role in enforcing the dictator’s rule.

American citizens have repeatedly been told that federal agencies maintain rigorous screening procedures for foreign nationals seeking entry into the country.

Yet cases like this demonstrate why national-security vetting must be taken seriously, and why officials must never assume that dangerous individuals will simply reveal their pasts.