An Iraqi citizen was arrested in Beirut after he was accused of impersonating a security official. [Getty]
Lebanese intelligence has arrested an Iraqi citizen accused of impersonating a high-level security official at the Iraqi embassy in Beirut, according to Al Arabiya Al Hadath.
The man, who has been named as Tarek al-Husseini, had worn fake military insignia during meetings to present himself as a colonel and the embassy’s head of security, Lebanese intelligence and military sources said.
Al-Husseini built a wide network of relationships with high-ranking figures in Lebanon, including security officials and heads of government agencies, according to the report.
Investigators are reportedly exploring potential links with political and security networks used by Iraqis, Yemenis, and Iranians.
Investigations are still ongoing to uncover more information.
According to preliminary information, Al-Husseini had previously worked at the embassy before becoming a delivery driver. He is reportedly married to a Lebanese woman.
He also reportedly introduced himself within some Shiite circles as being affiliated with the Iran-aligned Iraqi faction Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq.
Lebanese media have drawn parallels with the infamous ‘Abu Omar’, the Lebanese man who posed as a Saudi prince to gain access to the country’s political and business elite.
