Iraq News

Mar. 3, 2007

NINE SUSPECTED TERRORISTS DETAINED DURING RAID NORTH OF TAJI; TWO BELIEVED TO BE FOREIGN FIGHTER FACILITATORS

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained nine suspected terrorists during a raid Saturday morning targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq, two of whom are believed to be foreign fighter facilitators.

Intelligence reports indicated the targeted individuals are linked to the movement of foreign fighters into Baghdad. The targeted terrorists who were captured this morning are also believed to have recently harbored senior al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders.

“Coalition Forces are working diligently to eliminate foreign terrorists trying to hijack the development and building of a new stable and peaceful Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

AIR STRIKES TARGET AL QAEDA TERRORISTS WEST OF TAJI

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces targeted members of an al-Qaeda in Iraq network Friday during an air strike operation west of Taji.

Intelligence reports indicated that this network is responsible for threats to Coalition aircraft.

Coalition Forces believe key terrorists were killed during the air strike. Results are still being assessed at this time.

Several members of the cell, as well as vehicles with anti-aircraft artillery weapons and rounds, were gathered at an area known for terrorist activities. The coordinated air strike at the targeted location resulted in the destruction of the vehicles as well as the anti-aircraft artillery.

During the operation, Coalition Forces also targeted another vehicle mounted with anti-aircraft artillery. The strike resulted in the destruction of the vehicle as well as the structure it was parked beside.

More information will be released when it becomes available.

“Coalition Forces continue to tear apart the al-Qaeda leadership inside Iraq. This operation significantly reduces the terrorist network’s ability to operate, and increases the safety of all Iraqi citizens, Iraqi forces, and Iraq’s Multi-National partners,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

Hillah SWAT Captures Leader of Rogue JAM IED Cell Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

Baghdad – Hillah Special Weapons and Tactical team members captured the suspected leader of a rogue Jaysh Al-Mahdi militia cell during operations with Coalition advisors Friday in Babil Province.

The suspect allegedly controls an improvised explosive device cell responsible for attacks against Iraqi civilians and Coalition Forces.

The suspect is implicated in six IED attacks since December that have resulted in the deaths of three Coalition Forces Soldiers.

He is also involved in the murder of Iraqi civilians working with Coalition Forces.

Iraqi forces detained five additional suspected cell members for questioning.

The Iraqi led operation resulted in minimal damage to the objective.

There were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

Iraqi Police Captures 3 Members of Insurgent Network During Raid
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

Baghdad – Fallujah, Iraqi Police captured three suspected members of an Al Qaeda in Iraq linked insurgent network during operations with Coalition advisors Friday in Fallujah.

One suspect is believed to have participated in a recent attack on the Saqlawiyah Police station.

The other suspects are implicated in recording insurgent attacks against Coalition Forces on video and selling them to an Iraqi television station.

The videos are broadcast to support AQI’s effort to recruit more insurgents and incite attacks against Iraqis civilians and Coalition Forces.

Iraqi forces detained one additional suspect for questioning.