Iraq area affected by migrant deaths; big business smuggling

By SAMYA KULLAB
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RANYA, Iraq (AP) – Iraqi Kurds appear to make up the majority of Middle Eastern migrants looking to move to Europe these days. Although northern Iraq is more prosperous than the rest of the conflict-ridden country, rising unemployment and frustration over corruption force many to consider the risky journey. Last month, at least 27 migrants were killed when their fragile boat sank between France and Britain. Twana Mamaand is said to be among them. In their hometown of Ranya, in the Iraqi Kurdistan region, many people talk openly about wanting to make the journey, and travel agents help them contact smugglers in Turkey and elsewhere. Others failed and went back to find a way to go again. Kurdish authorities say they are powerless to take action against the smugglers.