Good News From Iraq (None of which gets on the BBC)

Four AIF killed outside of Dujayl - Multi-National Division – North PAO

TIKRIT, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed four anti-Iraqi Forces and detained two others several miles south of Dujayl, about 80 miles north of Baghdad, Dec. 15 after AIF attempted to engage a Coalition convoy during curfew hours.

An air weapons team, under the direction of the 3rd Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, engaged the AIF after they observed them setting up ambush positions along Highway 1, the main highway between Baghdad and Mosul.

Upon further investigation, Coalition Forces discovered various semi-automatic machine guns – including three AK-47s, three rocket-propelled grenade launchers, and one RPK fully-automatic machinegun.

Cavalry, National Police team up for Successful Joint Operation
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD, Iraq – In the south-central portion of the capital city is the Al Doura neighborhood where several elements of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division operate. Task Force 1-14 is one of those elements. They’ve been working with the National Police force to help calm rising tension between a divided populous.

The 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry
Division has been working side-by-side with companies from the 1st Battalion, 6th Brigade, 2nd
National Police Division since August.

According to Lt. Col. Jeff Peterson, commander of TF 1-14, what started out as a shaky beginning, has turned out to be something his Soldiers and the NPs can be proud of. "It's taken a lot of work and a lot of effort to get to where we are now," Peterson said. "It was very rocky when we first showed up. We had to build our relationship."

Peterson said joint missions conducted with the policemen for nearly six months have included patrolling the streets, cordon and search operations and raids. The team work is paying off now, Peterson said.

"Over time, we just keep getting better and better and more efficient,” he said. “There's been a marked improvement in the last month."

Most recently, the troops and police conducted joint operation Dec. 10. Peterson called it a parallel approach to the ongoing struggle between the anti-Iraq forces and Coalition force.

"It was unique," he said. "(In) the first phase of the mission, we developed some of our own targets, so we did a unilateral operation to conduct raids. Subsequent to that, the NP came and did a medium-scale clearing operation which they planned and organized."

Peterson's troops came into the operation with specific objectives in mind. They were after several high-value targets, who were wanted in connection to the ongoing sectarian violence in the area.

The policemen had different objectives. They received information on a weapons cache inside one of the local mosques.

The police raided the mosque and found exactly what they were after: several electronic, roadside bomb initiators, pipe bombs, plastic explosives and assault rifles. Peterson said that the company of police he worked alongside during the operation was some of the best he's worked with since his unit began these operations.

"Maj. Hayder is one of the stronger leaders in the battalion," he said. The police not only found the cache they were after, but several of the men the troops were after.

The mission was over. Weapons were taken off the street, and the police showed how valuable they could be to the community. Peterson said it was a very successful joint mission with the police alongside his team.

"When they partner with us, I think they do very well. They searched houses thoroughly. They were on time, in uniform ready to go. They interacted with the Iraqi populous in a professional manner. They were respectful of the property as they went through the home. They were respectful of the families. I thought it was a very successful operation," Peterson said.

He explained how important it was to have the police in the lead during joint missions. "With these operations it is very important to find caches, terrorists and detain them, but just as important is that the NP develop their relationship with the Iraqi people," he said. "They need to prove that they are trustworthy, professional and that they will conduct themselves in a professional manner."

The partnership between the police force and the Coalition troops is a key to securing a peaceful future for the Iraqi people, Peterson said.

"It's been a long time and a lot of work, but right now it's all about partnership moving toward transition,” he said. “I think the partnership is the critical piece of getting the situation in Iraq to where it needs to be so coalition forces can depart. It's just going to take some time and commitment."

Coalition Forces use precision-guided munitions to stop enemy
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – Coalition Forces were attacked by insurgents with a high volume small arms fire from a building Saturday in Ramadi. Coalition Forces returned fire with small arms and machinegun fire. Four insurgents were seen running down the road and were engaged with machinegun fire. One insurgent was killed and two more were wounded.

When the enemy’s attack did not cease, Coalition Forces used precision guided munitions to destroy the building being used as an insurgent fighting position. Parts of the buildings were destroyed. The enemy’s attacks stopped. The number of insurgents killed and wounded as a result of the strike is unknown at this time.

While investigating the area after the strike, Coalition Forces discovered an Iraqi citizen shot by an insurgent earlier in the engagement. Insurgents had taken his vehicle to transport the body of the killed and wounded insurgents out of the area.

Coalition Forces evacuated the injured civilian for medical care.

There are no reports of additional civilian casualties and no Coalition casualties.

Operations net five suspects, weapons
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment detained five suspected terrorists in two separate incidents and found weapons and other items during routine traffic checks in eastern Bagdad Dec. 16.

During one of the traffic stops, the unit found three 9mm pistols, three cell phones and a black ski mask. They detained three individuals during this incident.

The second incident netted a video camera, recorder and two more suspects. All five suspects are being held for questioning.

Paratroopers detain 18, secure cache at possible safe house
4th BCT (Airborne), 25th Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – Paratroopers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, detained 18 suspected insurgents and a weapons cache while searching a house near Jurf As Sakhr Dec 17.

The cache consisted of three rifles, one scope, one sword, one pistol, six magazines of 7.62mm ammunition, assorted military uniforms, one American protective chemical suit, a firing mechanism for an air defense weapon and a large amount of currency.

The detainees and confiscated weapons were taken to the unit’s base camp. The suspects are being held for further questioning.

Raid by Stryker troops nets cache
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Soldiers with the 5-20 Stryker Battalion found success in another cordon and search against insurgents Dec. 17 in eastern Baghdad.

The operation found six AK-47s with 13 magazines, two homemade zip guns, one rocket-propelled grenade launcher with a bag of grenades, three improvised explosive devices, one 9mm submachine gun with three magazines, one saber, one brass knuckle/knife combination and one .22-caliber single shot rifle.

The raid also uncovered a computer and two gas masks with filters.

Iraqi Army coordinates for air support to kill terrorists near Balad
Multi-National Division – North PAO

TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi Army soldiers from 1st Battalion, 5th Iraqi Army Division, with support from Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, called in an air strike on a house harboring eight terrorists after receiving small-arms fire from the house Thursday while they were on patrol east of Balad. Coalition Forces called for air support after small-arms fire from the house wounded three Iraqi soldiers.

After receiving clearance, an F-15E dropped a guided bomb on the house, partially demolishing it. However, IA continued to receive small-arms fire. Terrorists were observed going into the house. An air weapons team was called to assist ground forces.

Terrorists engaged the IA and CF Soldiers from a second house. Ground forces engaged the second house killing eight terrorists.

The Iraqi soldiers secured the site after the house had been destroyed, discovering the bodies of the eight terrorists with AK47 semi-automatic machine guns.

Weapons recovered Iraqi Policemen, Soldiers launch joint operation
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Iraqi Soldiers and police officers recovered weapons during a raid Dec. 16 during a joint operation in eastern Baghdad.

The raid yielded two machine guns, an AK-47 rifle, a rocket-propelled grenade motor, and heavy machine guns rounds. The motor and rounds were found inside a mosque, while the other weapons were in a dumpster outside the mosque.

The goal of the joint operation was to reduce sectarian violence in eastern Baghdad.

Iraqi Army, Paratroopers Disrupt Terrorists in Turki
Multi-National Division – North PAO

TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi Army soldiers and Paratroopers detained five suspected terrorists
and seized a weapons cache Thursday during an air assault operation targeting terrorist cells in Turki Village near Balad Ruz.

Nearly 200 soldiers from the 1st Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division and Paratroopers from 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division conducted the air assault.

“This marks yet another successful mission by the Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces to target specific terrorist cells throughout Diyala that wish to disrupt the daily lives of the innocent people of Iraq,” said Col. David W. Sutherland, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, and senior U.S. Army officer in the Diyala province. “We will continue to conduct joint operations to disrupt their ability to bring fear to the people of Diyala.”

During the mission, a CF air weapons team identified two armed anti-Iraqi forces and engaged them, killing both AIF.

Continuing on patrol, the Soldiers discovered a cache containing a rocketpropelled grenade, over 200 rounds of small-arms ammunition, six magazines of armorpiercing ammunition, material for making improvised explosive devices, and other smallarms munitions.

The Soldiers detained five suspected terrorists who were transferred to Forward Operating Base Caldwell and are pending transfer to FOB Warhorse.

“Today’s mission is a vital step for the people of Turki Village and the Balad Ruz area, as it has continued to reduce the AIF’s ability to move through the area,” Sutherland said.

“Terrorist activities will not be tolerated and we will continue to bring the terrorists to justice,” he added.

3-61st Cavalry troops foil bomb makers in east Baghdad, uncovered and destroy IED
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Soldiers with the 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment killed one insurgent and detained two others after they caught them attempting to place an improvised explosive device in eastern Baghdad in the evening hours of Dec. 16.

Also recovered were two loaded AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, and one magazine vest.

In a separate incident, 3-61st Soldiers found and detonated an IED during a morning patrol in east Baghdad Dec. 17.

Explosives found in medical facility, insurgents killed
Multi-National Force – West PAO

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – In east Ramadi, Iraqi Soldiers and members of the Coalition force found explosives inside a building marked as a medical facility Sunday.

The Iraqi Army and Coalition force responded to reports of an explosion in a building east of Ramadi. According to local citizens, the building was a former school that was being used as a medical facility. The building was clearly marked with a Red Crescent flag which is a symbol for medical facilities.

According to residents, armed insurgents wearing black masks had deposited an explosive charge and left the area. An explosion occurred shortly after their departure. A portion of the building was destroyed.

Upon further investigation, a propane tank and several projectiles were found strategically placed throughout the building in order to destroy it. The explosives were removed from the building and detonated in place.
There were no reports of civilian casualties and no Iraqi Army or Coalition casualties.

In Fallujah today the Coalition force killed two insurgents who attacked the northwest Iraqi Police gate of the Government Center.

The Coalition force observed four insurgents exit a parked vehicle and fire a rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fire at the Iraqi Police gate. As they attempted to fire the second RPG round, Coalition Forces engaged the insurgents with small arms fire. Two insurgents were killed and one was injured. One insurgent escaped.

Also in Ramadi, Iraqi Contractors with the security support of Iraqi Police began removing rubble from demolished buildings across from the Government Center in downtown Ramadi today.

The buildings which used to provide attack positions for terrorists were destroyed in September in a continuing effort to improve the working conditions near the Government Center.

The rubble removal is scheduled to continue through the end of the year.

IA Soldiers Capture 2 Insurgents near Ramadi
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – 7th Iraqi Army division forces, with coalition advisers, captured two suspected insurgents Dec. 18 during operations near Ramadi. The suspects are believed responsible for the kidnapping and murder of Iraqi policemen in the area. They are also implicated in emplacing improvised explosive devices used in attacks against Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces convoys, as well as vehicle hijackings to fund their insurgent activity.

There were no Iraqi civilians, Iraqi Forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

Iraqi Army Detains Three in Connection with IED Emplacement
1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers arrested three men Dec. 16 in connection with
the emplacement of an improvised explosive device north of the Iraqi capital. Iraqi troops from the 2nd Brigade, 9th Iraqi Army Division spotted two men emplacing the bomb on a road used by coalition forces. Later, Soldiers from the 1st Battalion of the same brigade fired on the suspects and eventually captured them near an Iraqi check point.

A third man, an Iraqi local national, who was used by the suspects as a decoy for their insurgent activities was also detained, questioned and then released.

During their detainment the two suspects confessed to another failed roadside bomb emplacement prior to Dec. 16. Both men also admitted to specifically targeting U.S. forces.

The two suspects were kept for further questioning.

Coalition Forces discover large caches
3rd BCT, 82nd Abn. Div. Public Affairs Office

SAMARRA, Iraq – Members of 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd
Airborne Division, discovered numerous caches Saturday, south of Samarra.

The caches included: numerous artillery rounds, several types of mortar rounds, 49 82 mm. mortar rounds, different types of rockets, detonation cord, blasting caps, video cameras, sticks of dynamite, mortar fuses, recoilless rifle rounds, a mortar launcher, sniper rifles, AK-47 semiautomatic machineguns, and .50 caliber ammunition.

“The discovery of these caches will put a huge dent in the terrorists’ ability to plant roadside bombs,” said Lt. Col. Viet Luong, Commander of 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment. “These weapons not only harm coalition forces, but also kill many innocent Iraqis. Along with our Iraqi partners, we will not rest until we clean this area of these harmful weapons.”

Weapons Cache Found Insurgent killed by Coalition Forces in Baghdad
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

BAGHDAD – One insurgent was killed and five roadside bombs were found by Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment attached to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division Dec. 19 in eastern Baghdad.

Also, recovered were 12 propane tanks rigged with detonation cord, three AK-47s, 10 hand grenades, one nine-millimeter pistol, one crew-served weapon with ammunition, three rocket launchers, and a mix of 50 rockets and mortars.

Explosives found; MND-B Troops Foil IED Attacks
2nd BCT, 2nd Infantry Division Public Affairs

BAGHDAD – Soldiers with the 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battalion found three roadside bombs in eastern Baghdad on Dec. 18. The improvised explosive devices were detonated by an explosive ordnance detachment unit.

This marked the third time in 13 hours that a roadside bomb had been found and detonated on the route.

Relieved of Duty Iraqi National Police Commander Relieved of Duty; Two others arrested By Capt. Isaac Carson
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – An Iraqi national police battalion commander was relieved of duty Dec. 18 after giving permission to two Iraqi police officers to illegally arrest two local nationals near a security checkpoint within the Iraqi capital.

The commander from 1st National Police Division permitted two Iraqi Police officers, claiming to be under orders from the Ministry of the Interior, to arrest two brothers for unknown reasons. Reports indicate the brothers were placed in two separate cars which departed in different directions.

Investigation by the National Police Headquarters Deputy Commander led to the discovery that the capture was not authorized by the Ministry of the Interior. The deputy commander then ordered the arrest of the battalion commander and the individuals manning the check point where the incident occurred.

The incident is still under investigation.

IA Captures IED Cell Leader in Al Kut
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – 8th Iraqi Army division forces, with coalition advisers, captured a suspected improvised explosive device cell leader Dec. 18 during operations in Al Kut.

The suspect, reported to be a leader within the Office of the Martyr Sadr in An Nasiriyah, is allegedly linked to illegal armed groups in the area and conducts and facilitates IED attacks specifically targeting Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces throughout Wasit Province.

Minimal damage occurred during the operation and there were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

SENIOR AL-QAIDA LEADER CAPTURED IN MOSUL

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces captured a senior al-Qaida leader and five suspected terrorists during a raid in Mosul Dec. 14.

The terrorist leader was captured when Coalition Forces raided a known terrorist meeting place. The terrorist leader was attempting to flee from the location when Coalition Forces chased him across a street and detained him.

As the Military Emir of Mosul in 2005, he was personally responsible for hundreds of civilian deaths, to include women and children. He housed foreign fighters to be used in suicide bombing attacks against the Coalition and the Iraqi people.

After leaving Mosul in late 2005, he became the Military Emir of Karkh, Baghdad. During that time, he coordinated vehicle borne improvised explosives device attacks and kidnap for ransom operations in Baghdad. He also reportedly organized an attempted shoot down of a Coalition Forces helicopter in an Ad'hamiyah neighborhood in May 2006.

After a few months he fled Baghdad due to Coalition Forces closing in on him. Just prior to his capture, he was attempting to organize what is left of the al-Qaida in Iraq network in Mosul after numerous terrorists were captured by Coalition Forces.

The capture of this terrorist responsible for anti-Iraqi and anti-Coalition activity will disrupt al-Qaida in Iraq operations, slow the facilitation of foreign fighters and bring Coalition Forces closer to capturing Abu Ayyub al- Masri.

Coalition and Iraqi forces continue to conduct operations around the clock and will persevere in their mission to deny al-Qaida’s ability to operate in Iraq.

Ramadi soccer field grand opening
Multi-National Force – West PAO

Ar Ramadi, Iraq – Tribal sheiks in western Iraq celebrated the opening of a soccer field in Ramadi Dec. 20. Tribal leaders in the restive Anbar Province recently banded together to take back their neighborhoods from the murder and intimidation campaign of al Qaeda terrorists.

Parts of the city have recently improved in security due their cooperation with the local Iraqi Security Force. There are currently more than 8,000 police on hand in Al Anbar, up from 3,700 only six months ago. Many Iraqi Police in Anbar receive their training in the police academy in Jordan.

One of the tribal leaders and charter member of the Anbar Rescue Council, Sheik Mohammed Heiss attended the Grand Opening of the Albu Diab Soccer Field. Others present included Sheik Taher, Albu Ali Jassim, Col Tariq Yousef, and Sheik Khaleed Ayaad Sarheed Gidae of the Albu Fahad tribe.

Sheik Heiss cut the ribbon and Iraqi children rushed the field to accept pens, pencils, coloring books, candy, soccer balls, jersey’s, “Iraqi Pride” and soccer posters.

Approximately 100 spectators were present to enjoy fresh fruit, cake, and soft drinks while Iraqi children enjoyed participating in a soccer game.

National Police discover road-side bomb
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD - A roadside bomb was discovered by a national police patrol early in the morning of Dec. 19. The police patrol cordoned of the area and contacted a explosive ordnance team to dispose of the bomb.

The bomb was detonated in place without incident. There was no damage to equipment or injury to personnel. The national police patrol continued on its mission after the detonation.

Paratroopers discover large weapons cache in Hamiyah
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

HAMIYAH, Iraq – Iraqi Police and paratroopers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team 25th Infantry Division, discovered a weapons cache near the Iraqi Police Station in Hamiyah, a town south of Baghdad, Dec. 19.

The weapons cache included 45 60mm mortar rounds, 15 120mm rounds, and three rockets that were five feet long.

The police and paratroopers discovered the cache after receiving a tip. An Explosive Ordnance Disposal team took control of the cache for analysis prior to destruction.

Working together, the paratroopers and policemen are securing the area for the people of Hamiyah.

National Police detain 12 at power plant facility in southern Baghdad
By Maj. David Shoupe 2nd BCT, 1st Cav. Div. PAO

BAGHDAD – Elements of the 6th Brigade 2nd Iraqi National Police Division detained 12 men suspected of sectarian murders at a power plant facility in the Jazeera neighborhood Dec. 19.

The raid was the result of tips from local residents. The Iraqi national police were attacked by small arms fire, rocket-propelled grenades and improvised explosive devices during the operation. Two vehicles were damaged.

The 12 suspects are being held for further questioning regarding their roles in sectarian murders in the al-Doura area of the Iraqi capital.

An Najaf now under Provincial Iraqi Control
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

NAJAF, Iraq – The security and governance of nearly one-million An Najaf citizens was officially transferred to Provincial Iraqi Control in a ceremony in southern Iraq Dec. 20.

“Today we are saying no to sectarianism, and no terrorism, and yes for peace, and yes for freedom, and yes for democracy,” said As’ad Abu-Galal al-Taai, the governor of An Najaf province, to a crowd of several hundred Iraqis gathered in the city’s soccer stadium for the ceremony.

In June 2005, Iraq’s Prime Minister announced a joint decision between the Iraqi government and Multinational Forces – Iraq to systematically hand over security responsibilities to Iraq’s provinces to provincial civil authorities under the control of each province’s governor.

“This is a terrific success for Iraq,” said Brig. Gen. Vincent Brooks, deputy commanding general - support for Multinational Division – Baghdad. “It is a major step forward in improving security and strengthening the authority of Iraq.”

An Najaf is the third of Iraq’s 18 provinces to be transferred to Provincial Iraqi Control and is Iraq’s fourth largest province. The coalition transferred full Provincial Iraqi Control to the provinces of Al Muthanna and Dhi Qar earlier this year. Since then, local police and military forces have had full responsibility for security with little coalition assistance.

“I am proud of you as we assume control of our destiny,” said As’ad. “With the help of the people, we will have security as promised by the constitution and the elections. This is a day of celebration.”

For three-and-a-half years, the Iraqi people in An Najaf worked alongside coalition forces training, equipping and mentoring the police and army to take responsibility for the security and enforcement of rule of law.

“Transferring the security for An Najaf is an indication of the increased capability of the Iraq police and the Iraqi army,” Brooks said. “Their capabilities grow every day, and civil governance will take the lead for providing the provinces security enforcement needs.”

Najaf , the provincial capital of An Najaf province, is approximately 100 miles south of Baghdad. It is home to one of Islam’s, especially Shia’s, holiest sites -- the Imam Ali Shrine. The shrine is the burial site of Imam Ali Ibn Abi Taleb, the son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad and the fourth caliph. Every year, nearly one million Shia Muslims make a pilgrimage to Najaf. It is estimated that only Mecca and Medina receive more Muslim pilgrims.

“More pilgrims will be able to enjoy An Najaf’s religious sites through it’s protected roadways and airport,” said Brooks. “In turn, this will continue stability and increase the quality of life for all residents.”

Shia religious activities were severely restricted under Saddam Hussein’s regime and observances such as Ashura have only recently been allowed thanks to the democratically elected Iraqi government. Ashura is a Shia religious ceremony mourning the death of Imam Ali, held each year at the conclusion of the Hajj season.

With the change in status, coalition security forces are helping local police and the Iraqi military take full control of security in the region.

“I am proud of the Iraqi police and the Iraqi army, as they now assume full responsibility for all law enforcement and security activities in the An Najaf province,” Brooks said. “It will be the citizens of An Najaf who must also work with the police to maintain and build upon safe communities, and to enjoy the blessings of peace. The future of Iraq depends on its people.”

Iraqi Army, Coalition Forces Discover Cache, Kills Seven AIF
Multi-National Division – North PAO

BAQUBAH, Iraq – Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army, with support from 1-12 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, killed seven terrorists, detained three suspected terrorists and discovered a cache while conducting
operations in the Chubianat area of Baqubah, Tuesday.

Col. David Sutherland, commander of 3-1 Cav. and senior U.S. Army officer in the Diyala province, said he believes this terrorist cell is responsible for the kidnappings and violence throughout the Baqubah markets.

While conducting ongoing operations to eliminate terrorists and insurgents from the Baqubah area and provide a secure and safe environment for the people of the region, soldiers from 2-5 IA were involved in several small arms fire attacks. Anti-Iraqi forces killed one Iraqi Army soldier and wounded seven.

With assistance from a coalition forces air weapons team, seven terrorists were killed during the attacks and an additional three suspected terrorists were detained. While conducting patrols, members of the 2-5 IA discovered a cache consisting of rocket propelled grenades, mortar rounds, mortar fuses and other improvised explosive device material.

“All of these munitions were going to be used against the Iraqi Security Forces and the people of Diyala,” Sutherland said.

A coalition forces explosive ordinance disposal unit arrived on site to conduct a controlled detonation.

“This operation is ongoing evidence that the 5th Iraqi Army is conducting intelligence-driven, evidence-based operations,” he said.

“Holding the Iraqi Army accountable for their performance is why the opening of two radio stations in Baqubah and Balad Ruz over the last two days is so important. It provides transparency of the IA to the people through news and information,” Sutherland said.

‘Cache house’ uncovered in eastern Baghdad
2nd BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 26th
Infantry Regiment discovered a weapons cache in a suspected militia safe house in eastern Baghdad Dec. 19.

While establishing a cordon around the suspected house, 1-26th Soldiers came under small arms fire and responded by hurling a grenade, which killed an insurgent. Once inside, the unit discovered a large cache of weapons and rounds including 30,000 rounds of ammunition, 200 mortar rounds, one prefabricated improvised explosive device, two suicide vests, two suicide belts, 20 107mm rockets, 31 grenades, 10 AK-47s, six machine guns, two rocket-propelled grenade launchers, 20 propane tanks, and four anti-tank mines.

Also recovered were materials used to forge identification cards, and 20 walkietalkies. The
arms and munitions were confiscated for further examination.

FOUR MEN DETAINED ON SUSPICION OF IED MANUFACTURING

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained four individuals in Baghdad Wednesday on suspicion of involvement in the manufacture and transportation of improvised explosive devices (IED). The four men were taken into custody after security forces stopped their vehicle.

The four suspects surrendered without incident. No shots were fired and no one was injured. Authorities are currently investigating the vehicle and the four suspects.

raqi Police recruiting drive signs up 1,115 in Al Anbar
Multi-National Force – West PAO

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – In one of the most successful recruiting efforts in western Iraq to date, 1,115 Iraqi men have recently signed up to join the Police Forces in the restive Al Anbar Province.

The new recruits, mostly from the Anbar cities of Ramadi, Fallujah and Hit, will attend a five-week training course at the Jordanian International Police Training College. Following successful completion of the course the new officers will join the more than 8,000 police currently serving in communities throughout Al Anbar Province.

The successful recruiting effort this month moves the Government of Iraq and Multi-National Forces West one step closer to achieving the joint goal of ensuring 11,330 trained law enforcement officers are on the job by April 2007.

“There are no spectacular victories in a counterinsurgency, but this represents a significant development in the fight for the people of Anbar,” said Coalition spokesman Marine LtCol Bryan Salas.

ONE TERRORIST KILLED, 25 SUSPECTED TERRORISTS DETAINED IN REGIONAL RAIDS

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed one terrorist and detained 25 suspected terrorists during multiple raids throughout the region Friday morning targeting foreign fighters and the al-Qaida in Iraq network.

Intelligence reports indicated that the suspected terrorists are responsible for the movement of foreign fighters, vehicle borne improvised explosive device operations, weapons facilitation and direct attacks against Iraqi civilians and Coalition Forces. Coalition Forces also captured an AQIZ financier.

IA Captures Al Qaeda In Iraq Cell Leaders
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – 5th Iraqi Army Division Forces, with coalition advisers, captured two suspected leaders of an al Qaeda in Iraq cell and detained one other suspect during operations Dec. 21 east of Baqubah. The cell leaders are allegedly responsible for multiple bombing and small arms attacks against Iraqi civilians and security forces in the area.

The alleged al Qaeda in Iraq leaders have conducted several improvised explosive device attacks against Iraqi security forces and bombing attacks on the homes and stores of Iraqi civilians. They are suspected of being involved in an IED attack on the Mandali courthouse as well. The cell leaders are also implicated in an assassination attempt against a senior Iraqi police officer.

There was minimal damage done to the objective. There were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

IA Captures Leader Of Insurgent Cell
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – 4th Iraqi Army Division forces, with coalition advisers, captured a suspected leader of an insurgent cell and detained two other suspects during operations Dec. 21 in Taji. The cell leader is allegedly responsible for coordinating small arms, car bombing and improvised explosive device attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces convoys in the Taji and Tarmiyah areas.

The alleged insurgent leader is also implicated in the involvement of illegal checkpoint operations and small arms attacks against Iraqi civilians.

There was minimal damage done to the objective. There were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

ISF Detains 4 Suspects During Operations Against AQI Cell
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Special Iraqi Army Forces, with coalition advisers, detained four suspects during operations Dec. 21 in the Rashid area of Baghdad to capture members of an al Qaeda in Iraq cell responsible for the deaths of Iraqi civilians and security forces in the area.

The cell uses improvised explosive devices and coordinated small arms attacks to help facilitate violence in southern Baghdad and threaten the local populace.

There was minimal damage done to the objective. There were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

ISF Captures Terrorists During Raid
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Special Iraqi Police Forces, with coalition advisers, captured four suspected terrorist cell members and detained three other suspects during operations Dec. 21 in Jabella south of Baghdad. The terrorists are allegedly responsible for attacks against Iraqi Police, Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces.

There were outstanding Ministry of Interior arrest warrants for the captured suspects.

There was minimal damage done to the objective. There were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties.

Soldiers, Iraqi National Police find weapon cache in Abu Dischir
By Cpl. Robert Yde 2nd BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

BAGHDAD – Soldiers from Troop C, 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, uncovered a weapon cache at an abandoned home during a joint operation with members of the 1st Battalion, 6th Iraqi National Police Division in Abu Dishir Dec. 20.

“One of the NPs (Iraqi national police) was searching a room and found the weapons cache hidden in rice bags in a room,” said troop commander, Capt. Adam Grim.

The Soldiers and police officers found several rifles, a large amount of ammunition and explosives.

“It’s satisfying to find something,” Grim said. “It gets weapons off of the street and is a step in the right direction for the progress and transition to the ISF (Iraqi Security Forces).

IA Captures Insurgent Cell Member
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – The 7th Iraqi Army Division Force, with Coalition advisers, captured a suspected insurgent during operations Dec. 22 near Ramadi. The Iraqi force, with Coalition advisers, detained the suspect without incident.

The suspect allegedly belongs to an insurgent cell responsible for attacks against the Iraqi and Coalition forces in the area.

The Iraqi Force detained one additional person for further questioning. Operations caused no damage and there were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi Force or Coalition force casualties.

IA detains 27 during operation against insurgent cell
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – 1st Iraqi Army Division force detained 27 suspects during operations Dec. 22 west of Fallujah against an insurgent network conducting and facilitating violent action and attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces.

The Iraqi force, with Coalition advisors, conducted simultaneous operations at multiple locations to capture the alleged insurgents who are responsible for improvised explosive device and small-arms attacks in the area. The insurgents are involved in weapons trafficking and other criminal activity supporting their terrorist activities and actions against legitimate Iraqi Force and Coalition force.

Minimal damage was caused during operations and there were no Iraqi civilian, Iraqi Force or Coalition forces casualties.

Iraqi Army, Police with cavalry keep pressure on terrorists
Multi-National Division – North PAO

MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police forces, in conjunction with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division and Task Force Lightning Soldiers, increased the pressure on anti-Iraqi forces in the Ninewa province with a series of offensive operations that began Monday aimed at eradicating terrorists.

A 12” pipe bomb was uncovered during a search and a 120mm mortar shell with a pressure wire detonator was discovered and rendered inert.

Iraqi Army, Iraqi Police, and 4th BCT Soldiers are prepared to continue conducting sustained operations together for as long as they deem necessary.

**Some good news from Afganistan as well, seems that the drug dealing Taliscum have been losing of late:

“NATO and Afghan forces have killed about 50 Taliban fighters in the past few days in an operation in southern Afghanistan, an alliance spokesman said on Wednesday. There were no casualties among NATO and Afghan forces in the latest operation, said NATO spokesman Brigadier Richard Nugee. The Taliban could not be contacted immediately for comment.”

Whilst still in Afganistan it would appear that Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Osmani, a senior member of the Taliban’s inner circle, was killed Dec. 19 in Helmand Province.

Osmani was the Taliban’s chief of military operations in the provinces of Uruzgan, Nimroz, Kandahar, Farah, Herat and Helmand. He played a central role in facilitating terrorist operations involving Taliban, al-Qaeda and the Haqqani Network, to include IED and suicide attacks, kidnappings, numerous atrocities against innocent civilians, and direct attacks on Coalition, NATO, and Afghan forces. Indeed a heart felt well done to the troops who removed this subhuman animal from the planet.

link: Here is the link to this welcome news

- One in the eye for my looney lefty MP Paul Flynn (Newport, Labour) who keeps on bleating about how the allies are losing, how we are tied down, its a new Vietnam etc etc. Well over to you Mr Flynn you gutless little coward.

Tags: Iraq, MFN Iraq, Iran, 101st Fighting Keyboardists, BBC Bias,Al Qaeda, War On Terror,Saddam Hussain,

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