Joint Operations in Sadr City B-Roll Mar. 4 Operation Tomahawk Strike 12 footage available on DVIDS
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD — ‘B-Roll’ of U.S. and Iraqi forces conducting joint operations in Baghdad’s Sadr City March 4 is available upon request from the Digital Video and Imagery Distribution System (DVIDS) by calling (678) 421-6604 or by accessing the DVIDS Web site at www.dvidshub.net.
The footage consists of the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, a Stryker unit from Fort Lewis, Wash., conducting “soft knock” search operations alongside Iraqi Army, Iraqi Police, and Iraqi National Police in the Shi’ite enclave as part of Operation Tomahawk Strike 12, which is part of Operation Fardh Al-Qanoon, or “enforcing the
law.”
This operation is designed to conduct a combined clearance of Sadr City to set secure conditions and identify and destroy militant threats and safe houses in the area in preparation of the establishment of a District Joint Security Station.
Operation Fardh Al-Qanoon began Feb. 14, resulting in a marked decline inviolence across Baghdad since that time.
THREE SUSPECTED TERRORISTS DETAINED IN BAGHDAD RAID
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists during a raid in Baghdad Sunday morning.
The targeted suspected terrorist, who was detained on the scene, is reported to be involved in the procurement and distribution of weapons, including explosives to conduct improvised explosive devices attacks against Iraqi citizens and Coalition Forces.
While conducting the raid, Coalition Forces entered a mosque where the targeted suspect was hiding. Coalition Forces detained the targeted suspect along with two other suspected terrorists.
During the operation, one local Iraqi woman received wounds to her thigh and head. Coalition medical personnel treated her onsite and she was transported to a local hospital for further care.
“Coalition forces soldiers respect the sanctity and holiness of all places of worship and exercise the utmost restraint when planning for and considering the conduct of operations in and around mosques,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.
“We do not enter mosques for the sole purposes of disrupting insurgent activities or conducting a show of force. Mosque entries occur only as a last resort, and only when substantial and credible evidence shows insurgent activity is occurring there – i.e., meetings, storage of weapons, harboring of insurgent leaders,” he said.
Clearing operations begin in Sadr City
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – More than 600 Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers and 550 Iraqi
security forces began a clearing operation in the eastern district known as Sadr City
March 4.
Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade
Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, with two Stryker companies from 1st Battalion,
23rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, conducted a
combined clearing operation beginning in the early morning hours March 4, teaming up
with the 8th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division and the 3d Battalion, 2nd Brigade,
10th Iraqi Army Division.
“During operations today, local residents were receptive and cooperative with
coalition and Iraqi forces,” said Lt. Col. Scott R. Bleichwehl, MND-B spokesman. “The
operation is designed to set secure conditions for the citizens of Sadr City.”
During the operation March 4, Bleichwehl said no weapons caches were reported
or suspects detained. He added there were no incidents of violence, and no casualties
to coalition force members, Iraqi security forces or civilians.
Baghdad – Special Iraqi Army Forces captured an alleged weapons smuggler and trafficker during operations with Coalition advisers Mar. 4 in Basra.
The suspect reportedly funnels weapons and improvised explosive devices to rogue Jaysh Al Mahdi elements for use in attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces.
Iraqi forces captured the alleged trafficker without incident. The operation, against a suspected rogue JAM member, demonstrates that Iraqi forces operate at will throughout Iraq to combat criminal and violent elements undermining the security of Iraq.
This is a follow up to MNF-I Press Release: A070303a
AIR STRIKE LEADS TO HOSTAGE RESCUE; WEAPONS CACHE UNCOVERED
BAGHDAD, IRAQ – An assessment performed by Coalition Forces following an air strike in Arab Jabour on Saturday led to the rescue of four Iraqi citizens and the uncovering of a terrorist weapons cache today.
Four Iraqi citizens were liberated from a building near the site of yesterday’s air strike. According to one of the liberated hostages, the terrorists holding them captive fled immediately after the air strike. All four hostages were treated on site for various injuries. One of the hostages said he had been held captive for 50 days.
At the site of the air strike, Ground forces also found remnants of an anti-aircraft heavy machine gun known as a DShK and multiple rocket propelled grenades and grenade launchers. Additionally, a DShK Tripod was found dug in the ground along the Tigris River with spent ammunition cartridges.
Coalition Forces called in the air strike yesterday after they began receiving small arms fire from several armed men across the Tigris River and were unable to safely subdue enemy fire.
Coalition Forces used two precision guided bombs in the strike destroying a small structure and killing seven terrorists hiding inside. A large secondary explosion was noted after the initial bombs were dropped on the target, indicating the presence of explosive material within the structure.
Joint operations nab 50 terrorists
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – Soldiers from Task Force 1-319 and the 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Division detained more than 50 insurgents during three days of operations focused on terrorist cells in Abu Ajeel, Wynot, and Owja near Tikrit in Salah ad Din.
Paratroopers from Task Force Loyalty’s Company B, 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, detained more than 40 personnel in the Abu Ajeel area with assistance from an Iraqi Emergency Services Unit, and the Iraqi army. The operation disrupted an Improvised Explosive Device Cell that has been operating in the area as well as delivering an insurgent cell leader who has been spearheading attacks against coalition and Iraqi security forces in recent months.
Soldiers from Task Force Loyalty’s Battery B detained more than 10 insurgents involved with financing and executing attacks on coalition forces in the towns of Wynot and Owja.
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During the raids, members of Battery B engaged numerous insurgents killing three who were poised to conduct a deadly roadside ambush on coalition forces during the operation.
“The combined efforts of the Iraqi security forces, Task Force Loyalty, and the Iraqi citizens have achieved improved security not only in Abu Ajeel, Wynot and Owja, but throughout Tikrit as well,” Lt. Col. Barry Di Ruzza, commander, Task Ford Loyalty. “The key to our success has been the outstanding [information from local citizens], derived jointly by the Iraqi Army, Iraqi Police, and our intelligence section. This cooperation is what enabled us to execute simultaneous Intel-driven operations and take a significant positive step toward increased security for these local citizens.”
15th MEU Seizes and Destroys Multiple Weapons CachesMulti-National Force – West PAO
AR RUTBAH, Iraq – Forces of 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit/Task Force Bullrush found improvised explosive devices and rocket propelled grenades when they uncovered three weapons caches in the city of Rutbah, Thursday.
The Marines were acting on tips provided by concerned Iraqi citizens when they discovered the munitions.
The caches included various rockets, rocket propelled grenades, small arms, bomb making materials and other items. The caches were destroyed during a controlled detonation conducted by an explosive ordnance team.
Earlier the same day, while conducting a mounted patrol, elements of the 15th MEU (SOC) discovered one other cache some 18 km north of Rutbah that consisted of 40 heat rounds, two 90mm rounds, and one 155mm round, bringing the count to four caches in under eight hours.
15th MEU (SOC) forces continue to find weapons caches, denying the enemy the ability to return and stage attacks. The tips are just another example of Iraqis securing Iraq for a safe and prosperous future.
Marines Disrupt Terrorist Cells In Rutbah
Multi-National Force – West PAO
AR RUTBAH, Iraq – Marines of 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable)/ Task Force Bullrush discovered numerous weapons caches and detained seven suspected terrorists March 2 when they conducted a series of raids targeting terrorist cells associated with the manufacturing and storage of improvised explosive devices.
U.S. Forces were conducting a cordon and search of one house when they came across a metal can containing a stick of PE-4 explosives hidden inside. A continued search by 15th MEU Forces resulted in a total of 6 caches located throughout the courtyard and inside the house.
The caches contained RPKs, RPG launchers, medium machine guns, AK-47s, Dragunov sniper rifles, loaded magazines, hand grenades, and large quantities of explosives and electrical components used to manufacture IEDs.
During the operation, Marines detained seven suspected terrorists believed to be responsible for setting IEDs in and around the city of Rutbah. The insurgents were transferred to the Task Force collection point for further questioning.
Earlier this day, U.S. Forces detained three suspected insurgents for questioning in connection with three weapons caches discovered Mar. 1.
Marines of 15th MEU (SOC) continue to find large caches, denying the enemy the ability to return and stage attacks, disrupting insurgent activity and help set the conditions for a prosperous future for the people of Rutbah.
Fardh Al-Qanoon Update
Large cache discoveries highlight security efforts
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers, together with Iraqi security
forces uncovered more than 10 times the number of mortar rounds and small arms
ammunition this week, thanks in large part to several large cache finds southwest of the
Iraqi capital.
More than 21,000 small arms rounds were confiscated this week, up from 2,160
the previous week; while 937 mortar rounds were discovered, up from 89 the week
before.
“Our operations are denying terrorists and extremist elements the ability to wage
war against innocent Iraqi citizens and our own forces,” said Brig. Gen. John F.
Campbell, deputy commanding general for maneuver for MND-B. “Together with our
Iraqi counterparts, we continue the effort to provide a lasting peace here in Baghdad.”
Noting the impact of the arrival of U.S. and Iraqi troops into Baghdad to
implement the new security plan, Campbell pointed to the districts of Adhamiyah and
Sadr City as recent success stories, based on the decrease in the number of attacks in
those areas.
In December, the two eastern Baghdad districts accounted for 440 total attacks,
which include small arms fire, improvised explosive device explosions and sectarian
murders. From Feb. 5 through March 5 this year, however, Campbell said those attacks
dropped to 91.
“Over the past month, there were 18 small arms attacks and 19 murders,”
Campbell said. “That is a dramatic decrease from December totals of 116 and 254,
respectively.”
The number of IED attacks decreased by nine, compared to the December 2006
monthly total, from 40 down to 31. Campbell said efforts continue in and around
Baghdad to take weapons out of the hands of extremists.
The 10th Mountain Division’s 2nd “Commando” Brigade alone uncovered 23
caches during the week of Feb. 24 through March 2. In all, MND-B units found 51
caches, up 11 from the previous week.
In one mission alone, Operation Eagle Viper conducted March 1, the Commando
Brigade uncovered eight caches and detained 42 suspects in Janabi Village, Iraq.
With additional troops arriving in the Iraqi capital every day, Campbell noted a
steady rise in the number of security patrols in and around Baghdad.
“This week, we conducted more than 24,000 patrols in support of Operation
Fardh Al-Qanoon,” Campbell said. “That’s up more than 2,500 from the previous week.
Of those 24,000 patrols, more than half were conducted by the Iraqi police and national
police forces.”
As security forces throughout Multi-National Division Baghdad expand into the
neighborhoods and streets of the city, setting up patrol bases and Joint Security
Stations, Campbell said there is an immediate impact on the enemy.
“We’ve seen in a continuing downward trend in attacks,” he said. “For the fourth
straight week, attack volume within the city of Baghdad has declined.
“Despite determination by terrorists with Al Qaeda in Iraq to instigate sectarian
violence through senseless killing of Iraqi civilians, we are seeing the lethality of these
vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and suicide attacks declining, significantly,”
Campbell added. “And sectarian murder levels remain lower than prior to the start of
Operation Fardh al-Qanoon.”
Even as the level of violence continues to decline in and around the Iraqi capital,
civil affairs operations, especially construction projects were slowed this week. The
slow down was not due to violence in the city streets, but rather because of heavy rain
and religious holidays, according to Navy Cmdr. Michael Sanchez, a civil military affairs
plans officer with MND-B.
However, Sanchez said, the division hosted a team of industry executives, who
visited several state-run enterprises in and around Baghdad to gain an appreciation for
the existing capabilities and to begin developing strategies to revitalize industry.
“The executive team was sponsored by Paul Brinkley, the Defense Undersecretary for Business Transformation,” Sanchez said. “They went to factories in Iskandariyah, Mussayib and Al Doura.”
Another group brought in by Brinkley focused on agriculture, according to
Sanchez.
“This team of agricultural experts met with division representatives to discuss
agriculture-related initiatives being conducted in the farming regions around Baghdad,”
Sanchez said.
The level of violence in the city remained relatively steady, Campbell said,
showing no major increase or decrease over the past week. However, he lauded the
weapons cache finds during the week.
“Three full weeks into the new security plan, we’re seeing the fruits of our labors,”
he said. “There is progress being made on the streets of Baghdad as we take the fight
to the enemies of a free Iraq.”
36 SUSPECTED TERRORISTS CAPTURED THROUGHOUT IRAQ
BAGHDAD, Iraq –Coalition Forces detained 36 suspected terrorists during raids Monday morning targeting foreign fighter facilitator and al-Qaeda in Iraq networks.
During a raid near the Syrian border, Coalition Forces targeted terrorists believed to be involved in the facilitation of foreign fighters, weapons and vehicles into Iraq. Coalition Forces captured the two suspected senior-level foreign fighter facilitators along with 20 other suspected terrorists who were at the targeted location.
A raid in Tikrit netted four suspected terrorists believed to be involved in the development and emplacement of improvised explosive devices in the Tikrit and Bayji areas.
Five suspected terrorists were detained during operations near Arab Jabour targeting a vehicle-borne IED network.
Coalition Forces also detained five suspected terrorists while targeting a foreign fighter cell south of Fallujah,
“Successful Coalition operations continue to disrupt al-Qaeda in Iraq operations, restrict the flow of foreign fighters and reduce the terrorist organization’s manpower pool,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.
Iraqi Security Forces Captures Leader of Insurgent Cell in Karabilah
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces captured the suspected leader of an insurgent cell during operations with Coalition advisors March 3 in Karabilah, near the Syrian border.
The suspect is allegedly responsible for trafficking weapons and improvised explosive devices used in attacks against Iraqi civilians and security forces in the area.
The suspect is also implicated in a recent IED and car bombing attack on the Karabilah Iraqi Police Station.
The Iraqi led operation caused minimal damage to the objective. There were no of Iraqi civilians, Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties.
Iraqi Forces detain suspected rogue JAM member in Karbala
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces conducted operations March 5 with Coalition Forces advisers in Karbala targeting rogue Jaysh Al Mahdi elements.
The operation was targeting rogue JAM responsible for advanced improvised explosive device attacks against Iraqi civilians and Iraqi Security Forces in Karbala Province.
One suspected militiaman was captured by Iraqi Forces.
U.S. Army Soldiers rescue two in torture house
Multi-National Force – West PAO
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – U.S. Army Soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 509th Infantry
(Airborne), Regimental Combat Team 6, rescued two victims in a torture house and
discovered a chemical storage facility near Karmah, 10 km northeast of Fallujah,
March 1.
Soldiers freed the two bound and gagged civilians held in a complex 60 km west
of Baghdad. One victim, later identified as an Iraqi policeman, had been shot while the
other had been hanged and beaten.
Both victims were alive and immediately air evacuated by Coalition Forces to
Camp Taqqadum Surgical for treatment.
The terrorists, identified as al Qaeda in Iraq by one of the victims, were filming
the torture sessions and apparently left the two hostages alone to get more videotape.
“Our Paratroopers saved a local Iraqi citizen and an Iraqi policeman from further
torture and certain death,” said Maj. Paul Edgar, battalion executive officer. “We were
glad to have the opportunity to help these Iraqi patriots. They are our brothers and the
leaders in the common fight for security.”
The storage facility appears to have been a waypoint for smuggling. The storage
facility included 1.1 million pounds of aluminum sulfate, 28,800 liters of formaldehyde,
and 226 kg of sugar. While these chemicals alone seem benign, anti-Iraqi forces have
combined these with other common ingredients in the past to make homemade
explosives.
The chemical materials were destroyed on site by Explosive Ordnance Disposal
personnel.
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Video footage is now available on the Web sites of Multi-National Force-Iraq (www.mnf-iraq.com) and the Digital, Video, Imagery Distribution Systems (www.dvidshub.net) of Coalition forces targeting members of an al-Qaeda in Iraq network Friday during an air strike operation west of Taji.
Information about this air strike was released by the Combined Press Information Center Saturday in press release A070303a entitled “Air strikes target al Qaeda terrorists west of Taji.”
DVIDS: http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=video/video_show.php&id=21634
MNF-I: http://www.mnf-iraq.com/images/stories/FJI/2007/a-ocf2%20-%20titled%20video%20aa%20guns%2C%202%20mar%2007.wmv
Iraqi national police, emergency services respond to car bomb in southwestern Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi national police and emergency services responded to a car bomb in southern Baghdad that killed three and wounded 17 Iraqi civilians in an afternoon attack Mar. 6.
A national police patrol and Multi-National Division – Baghdad troops arrived on scene shortly after the attack, established checkpoints and began to evacuate the wounded to local hospitals. Iraqi emergency service personnel also responded to the scene, extinguishing a fire and assisting with the medical treatment of bystanders injured in the blast.
In addition to the car-bomb, three civilian vehicles were destroyed in the explosion. The incident is under investigation.
Clearing Sadr City MND-B general pleased with initial results 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – A combined force of Iraqi police, national police and Multi-
National Division – Baghdad troops completed a second day of security operations in
the eastern Baghdad Sadr City district March 5.
Members of the 82nd Airborne Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team and the 3rd
Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division conducted security operations with
their Iraqi counterparts and reported no hostile contact for a second day in an area
known to be a stronghold of Muqtada Al Sadr, the extremist leader of rogue elements
known for extrajudicial killings and attacks against coalition forces. Some residents
seemed genuinely pleased to see the troops arrive, as small children were seen smiling
and waving to coalition forces.
"It's a promising first start,” said Maj. Gen. Joseph F. Fil Jr., commanding general
of MND-B. “We sense there is an opportunity opening here that we want to immediately
take advantage of while working with the Iraqi security forces and the people of Sadr
City.”
The citizens of Sadr City appear to welcome the respite from recent violence
over the last few months. The killings have fallen off from more than 200 in December
and January to less than 20 during the past 30 days as the new security plan for the
Iraqi capital is carried out by newly arrived troops.
“Although much too early to tell,” Fil noted, “we sense that the people of the city
are ready for a change."
At the conclusion of the security operations a Joint Security Station will be
established in the District Police Station for Sadr City. This security station will allow a
24-hour presence in the Sadr City district and facilitate coordination between all security
forces.
Fil said the key to future success is the newly-established Baghdad Operational
Command, and the close coordination and cooperation that have been established.
“The Baghdad Operational Command became fully operational on the first of this
month and they are off to a great start,” the general said. “Lt. Gen. Abud is directing
and controlling Iraqi security forces throughout Baghdad. We are coordinating between
our commands in a way that is having an immediate effect on the streets. Feedback
from the Iraqis has been positive and we feel at this time we are on the right track."
“Golden Dragons” scout platoon defeats IED cell
2nd BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. (LI) Public Affairs Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
SADR AL-YUSUFIYAH, Iraq — Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed four
terrorists planting improvised explosive devices at a village near the banks of the
Euphrates River March 5.
The Scout Platoon of the 2nd “Golden Dragons” Battalion, 14th Infantry
Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry),
discovered five terrorists emplacing IEDs and engaged them with small arms fire, killing
four of them. Two AK-47 assault rifles were recovered following the fire fight.
The fifth member of the terrorist team fled.
The bodies of the terrorists were turned over to the local authorities and the
weapons confiscated.
Wolverines find cache west of Baghdad airport
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
RADWANIYAH, Iraq — Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers discovered a weapons cache along the main highway into Baghdad Monday.
Soldiers from Troop A, 1st “Wolverines” Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) found the cache near the village of Radwaniyah, adjacent to the western side of the Baghdad International Airport.
The cache contained 10 fragmentation hand grenades, 165 mortar primers, eight 12.7 mm machinegun rounds, two bags of bulk explosives with blasting caps, a box with 100 blasting caps, 1,000 9mm pistol rounds, six hand grenade fuses, a bag of plastic explosives, 1,000 AK-47 rounds and an improvised explosive device.
The ammunition and explosives were collected and destroyed by an explosive ordnance detachment.
Day 2 of Joint Operations in Sadr City B-Roll Monday Operation Tomahawk Strike 12 footage available on DVIDS
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD – ‘B-Roll’ of U.S. and Iraqi forces conducting day two of joint operations in Baghdad’s Sadr City Monday is available upon request from the Digital Video and Imagery Distribution System (DVIDS) by calling (678) 421-6604 or by accessing the DVIDS Web site at www.dvidshub.net.
The footage consists of the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, a Stryker unit from Fort Lewis, Wash., searching houses and interacting with local residents alongside Iraqi national police forces in the Shi’ite enclave.
The joint mission being conducted in Sadr City is part of Operation Fardh Al-Qanoon, or “enforcing the law,” which began Feb. 14.
Air strike destroys building used to build IEDs
BAGHDAD, Iraq – A Coalition Forces air strike destroyed a building housing a large cache of materials used to build roadside bombs in Mosul Monday evening.
Intelligence reports stated terrorists were accumulating weapons and were believed to have knowledge of suppliers and producers of improvised explosive devices in the Mosul area.
Upon arrival at the targeted building, two individuals pulled weapons on the ground force. Ground forces took proper self-defense measures and killed the individuals.
While searching the targeted building, ground forces discovered an underground room that was being used to store large amounts of IED-making materials, including approximately 50 IEDs, 200 bags of fertilizer, blasting caps and multiple grenades.
Coalition Forces called in for air support to destroy the building to prevent the IED-related material from being used against Iraqi citizens, Iraqi military and Coalition Forces in the future.
“Considering the amount of human suffering and damage inflicted by VBIEDs, it is always significant when we are able to eliminate or detain terrorists involved in these attacks,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.Iraqi Army detains suspected roadside bombers
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
KALSU, Iraq – Iraqi Army troops detained three individuals found with bomb-making
materials south of Baghdad Sunday.
Soldiers of 5th Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division who work as
partners with 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team
(Airborne), 25th Infantry Division detained the three insurgents during a security patrol.
The three suspects were detained for questioning.
Sgt. 1st Class Nicholas Conner
15th SB, Public Affairs
CAMP TAJI, Iraq –Gen. Benjamin Griffin, commander, Army Material Command, spoke with leaders and Soldiers of the 15th Sustainment Brigade during a visit to the “WagonMaster” footprint at Taji, Iraq Feb. 24.
Griffin voiced concern over the relationship a sustainment brigade needs to have with supported units. Namely, the ability to adapt and change to supply and support needs in a fluid combat environment.
“I think you’ve done a great job with that,” he said of the 15th SB.
Col. Aundre Piggee, 15th SB commander, also spoke during Griffin’s visit.
Piggee said that providing the primary logistics and support for all units within Multi-National Division-Baghdad is the role the brigade plays, especially since the recent surge in combat units to his area of operations.
“Baghdad is the center of gravity,” said Piggee. “We support all forces operating in this battle space.”
In addition to units in the Baghdad area, the 15th SB maintains logistical oversite and support to troops from Kalsu to the Jordanian border.
Piggee said that the linchpin to the success the “WagonMaster’s” have had comes from adherence to the fundamentals of leadership, standards, discipline and training.
“We’ve been able to meet every requirement,” he said. “We don’t expect any challenges.”
One terrorist killed, two wounded south of Tikrit
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – One terrorist was killed and two were wounded by aerial surveillance
helicopters March 4, just south of Tikrit when they were found removing munitions from
a cache site.
Paratroopers from Battery B, Task Force 1-319th, were immediately dispatched to
search the area. More than 600 mortar rounds and anti-tank mines with fuses were
discovered. An explosive ordnance detachment conducted a controlled detonation of
the munitions at the site.
The wounded individuals were evacuated for medical care and the body of the
deceased was transported to the Tikrit morgue.
Strykers capture 22, secure ammunition and explosives
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
4th BCT (Abn.), 25th Inf. Div. Public Affairs KALSU, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers detained 22 insurgent suspects and secured weapon and ammunition caches south of Baghdad March 6. Soldiers of 3rd Stryker Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division conducted targeted raids to capture known terrorists and secure weapons and ammunition near Jabella, Iraq.
Besides the 22 detainees taken into custody, several caches were found. The caches consisted of one 60mm mortar round, two sticks of dynamite, nine feet of detonation cord, three blasting caps, one set of desert camouflage uniform, three AK-47 ammunition magazines, three passports, one machine gun barrel, one AK-47 butt stock, two empty ammunition boxes, one box of primers, two AK-47s, six 7.62mm ammunition magazines, one 8mm round, two 8mm mortar fuses, five blasting caps and
one rocket-propelled grenade booster.
The suspects are being detained for further questioning.
Operation White Rockets nets two caches, two suspects south of Baghdad
4th BCT (Abn.), 25th Inf. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
KALSU, Iraq – Iraqi Army troops and paratroopers from Multi-National Division – Baghdad worked together to successfully complete “Operation White Rockets” March 6, finding two ammunition caches and detaining two suspects.
Soldiers of 5th Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division and 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Squadron dismounted to clear out suspected insurgent sanctuary areas near Bin Muhammad, Iraq, south of Baghdad.
The caches consisted of various amounts of homemade explosives, 50 five-gallon plastic fuel cans, a table with a white crystal substance, blue barrels filled with a white crystal substance, one gas can with a white crystal substance with red detonation cord, one 50-pound sack filled with a fine gray powder, one 75-pound bag filled with a white crystal powder, one 15-foot length of pipe, two mortar sights, three bags of detonation cord, one AK-47 receiver, 100 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and 11 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.
While clearing buildings, two suspects were detained. The ammunition caches were secured by an explosive ordnance disposal team for controlled detonation. The unknown substances are being tested for identification.
Both suspects were detained for further questioning.
24 suspected terrorists captured throughout Iraq
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 24 suspected terrorists during raids Wednesday morning targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq networks.
Ground forces detained eight suspected terrorists during a raid in South Baghdad when they targeted a group reported to be involved in the coordination, movement and emplacement of vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices used against Iraqi and Coalition Forces.
During a raid in Rutbah, Coalition Forces detained five suspected terrorists while targeting a suspected weapons dealer who is known for providing IED–making material and is also believed to be involved in foreign fighter facilitation.
Coalition Forces also detained two suspected terrorists in Samarra. Intelligence reports indicate terrorists in the targeted area are involved in weapons trafficking and the acquisition of identity cards and passports.
Northeast of Karmah, Coalition Forces detained nine suspected terrorists with alleged ties to senior al-Qaeda in Iraq leadership.
“Coalition Forces operations continue to systematically dismantle the al-Qaeda in Iraq network,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “The al-Qaeda in Iraq network is contrary to the peace and stability Iraqi citizens deserve.”
Iraqi Army, attack helicopters capture 32 Insurgents
Multi-National Division – North PAO
CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS BASE SPEICHER, Iraq – Iraqi soldiers from the 1st and 3rd Battalions of the 4th Division and Iraqi police from Tikrit’s Emergency Service Unit completed operations today in Duluiyah and the Jabouri Peninsula where they detained eight suspected terrorists.
U.S. Soldiers from Company A, 3rd Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, and attack helicopters assisted the Iraqi-led operations, which began at the request of the local populace.
“This operation demonstrates the ability of the [Iraqi security force] to react and conduct complex operations. The support of the forces from Tikrit has been outstanding, and it’s impressive that the Iraqi army is able to mass forces at different points in the province,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Dunlop, commander, 3rd Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment. “Operations like this are possible only because local people come forward with information and ask for help. The more information and cooperation the Iraqi army receives, the more frequently it can conduct these missions, so that security is provided for everyone.”
In Bayji more than 400 Iraqi army soldiers from the 2nd Strategic Infrastructure Brigade detained more than 24 suspected terrorists during joint operations. Paratroopers from the 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, provided quick reaction assets.
“The Iraqis are taking great strides in leading and planning operations,” said Bryan Owens, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. “Their continued success will help to make Salah Ad Din a peaceful place for all its citizens.”
‘Polar Bears’ take fire, detainee
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
2nd BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. (LI) Public Affairs
YUSUFIYAH, Iraq — Multi-National Division – Baghdad troops patrolling near a canal here detained a terrorist March 7 at approximately 1:30 p.m. after he fired at them.
Soldiers of the 4th “Polar Bears” Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) spotted two local national men digging in an improvised explosive device near the canal. One was armed with an AK- 47.
The Soldiers fired a single warning shot, but the armed man returned fire. The Soldiers returned well aimed fire and wounded the terrorist in the shoulder and leg. The other man fled.
The wounded man was medically evacuated for treatment. He will be held for questioning.
CCCI convicts 18 insurgents, 3 sentenced to life, 2 sentenced to 30 years imprisonment
BAGHDAD, Iraq – The Central Criminal Court of Iraq convicted 18 security detainees from Feb. 25 to March 1, for various crimes including joining an armed group to unsettle the stability and security of Iraq, possession of illegal weapons, personal identification violations and an illegal border crossing violation.
The trial court sentenced two Iraqis to life imprisonment after finding them guilty of violation of Article 4/1 of Iraq’s Terrorist Law. The convicted Iraqis were captured during a Multi-National Forces targeted raid to capture known Al-Qaeda members Nov. 11, 2006. According to the trial summary, the men were known members of a terrorist cell that conducted at least six improvised explosive attacks against Iraqi Forces. The documents said one of the convicted men admitted to planting two IEDs against Multi-National Forces with the other convicted man.
One other man was sentenced to life imprisonment. A foreign national was convicted by the Central Court of Iraq for violation of Article 24/1 of the Iraqi Penal Code for illegal border crossing. The man was apprehended Feb. 24, 2005 in Ramadi by Multi-National Forces. According to the trial summary, the convicted man repeatedly admitted he had entered Iraq illegally to wage war against Americans. The summary said the man had changed his opinion of Americans while in custody of Multi-National Forces and regretted coming to Iraq.
Two Iraqi men were sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for possession of illegal weapons in violation of Order 3/2003. The first conviction is a result of a Multi-National Forces traffic stop in Fahama, Sept. 10, 2006 which led to a search of the convicted man’s home. A search of the convicted man’s house revealed, a weapons cache that included an AK-47, magazines, grenades and a bullet proof vest. A video of an improvised explosive device explosion and pictures of the convicted man posing with a pistol and a Rocket Propelled Grenade were also found on the convicted man’s cell phone.
The second 30-year conviction resulted from a cordon and knock operation conducted Dec. 23, 2006 by Multi-National Forces near Rawah. A search of the convicted man’s compound revealed a cache of AK-47s, magazines, detonation cords, fuse caps, shaped charges, grenades and machine gun ammunition.
The Central Criminal Court of Iraq convicted the remaining 11 Iraqi men from one to 20 years imprisonment for weapons violation charges, using forged identification and the illegal use of another person’s documents. Two Syrians were also convicted by the Court. One Syrian was sentenced to five years imprisonment for taking another person’s documents and the other was sentenced to six months imprisonment for disobeying military orders.
Since its reorganization, under an amendment to CPA order 11, in April 2004, the Central Criminal Court has held 1,922 trials for Coalition-apprehended insurgents. The proceedings have resulted in the conviction of 1,658 individuals with sentences ranging from imprisonment to death.
Seven terrorists killed during raid on suspected VBIED cell
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed seven terrorists during an operation Wednesday and captured six others today while targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq.
Intelligence reports indicated terrorists directing vehicle-borne improvised explosive device operations and the distribution of IEDs and weapons were operating at a targeted location in Mosul.
Coalition Forces approaching the targeted area by helicopter received enemy fire from several vehicles. Coalition Forces returned fire from the helicopter, killing five terrorists.
Coalition Forces continued their mission and searched the targeted buildings and found a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, RPG rounds, and assault weapon magazines. They destroyed the weapons cache on the site to prevent further use by terrorists.
After clearing the targeted buildings, ground forces began receiving sniper and machine gun fire from another building. Ground forces returned fire killing two terrorists.
Today, four suspected terrorists with alleged ties to IED attacks were captured in an operation northeast of Karmah. Two more suspects were captured southeast of Al Qa’im in an operation targeting an al-Qaeda in Iraq associated weapons dealer.
“Coalition Forces will continue to successfully kill or capture al-Qaida in Iraq terrorists regardless of where they may hide or operate,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.
‘Wolverines’, Apaches engage, kill terrorists
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – A combined operation between ground forces and Apache attack helicopters engaged and killed a platoon-sized element of enemy fighters west of the Baghdad International Airport Complex on Iraqi Highway 1 at approximately 9 p.m., March 7.
A patrol from Troop A, 1st Battalion, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division reported enemy tracer fire in the area known as Az-Zaidon. As they moved toward the firing, they detected armed insurgents in an ambush position along both sides of a canal road. A truck was parked nearby.
After clearing the area of friendly forces, the patrol called for close air support from nearby AH-64 Apache attack aircraft. The helicopter engaged the enemy fighters, killing 12 and destroying the truck, which had an anti-aircraft heavy machine gun mounted in the bed.
MND-B Soldiers Foil Roadside Bomb Emplacement
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers foiled an attempt by insurgents to emplace an improvised explosive device March 7 near Taji market.
Several insurgents were spotted and engaged by Camp Taji tower guards as the terrorists low-crawled to an area on a major highway where they could emplace the roadside bomb.
Once fired upon, the insurgents fled before they had time to fully emplace the explosive device.
Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment quickly arrived at the site and secured the area, found and recovered two 130 millimeter rounds, which were later disposed of by explosives experts.
Soldiers are currently investigating to find those responsible for trying to emplace the bomb.
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed seven terrorists during an operation Wednesday and captured six others today while targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq.
Intelligence reports indicated terrorists directing vehicle-borne improvised explosive device operations and the distribution of IEDs and weapons were operating at a targeted location in Mosul.
Coalition Forces approaching the targeted area by helicopter received enemy fire from several vehicles. Coalition Forces returned fire from the helicopter, killing five terrorists.
Coalition Forces continued their mission and searched the targeted buildings and found a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, RPG rounds, and assault weapon magazines. They destroyed the weapons cache on the site to prevent further use by terrorists.
After clearing the targeted buildings, ground forces began receiving sniper and machine gun fire from another building. Ground forces returned fire killing two terrorists.
Suspected AQ Media Emir, alleged "Butcher" captured in raids
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed one terrorist and captured 16 suspected terrorists including an alleged al-Qaeda media emir during raids Friday morning throughout Iraq.
In Mosul, Coalition Forces captured an al-Qaeda related suspect known as “The Butcher” who is allegedly responsible for numerous kidnappings, beheadings, and suicide operations in the Ramadi and Mosul areas. Coalition Forces captured five additional suspects and killed one terrorist during the raid.
During operations in Fallujah, Coalition Forces captured two suspected terrorists with alleged ties to foreign fighter facilitation.
Northeast of Karmah, a suspected al-Qaeda media emir was captured along with seven others. The suspects are also believed to be part of an al-Qaeda courier network.
“Coalition Forces will continue to target al-Qaeda in Iraq and foreign terrorist facilitators regardless of where they may hide,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.
Tags:BAGHDAD - The leader of the al-Qaida-affiliated Islamic State of Iraq has been captured in a raid west of Baghdad, an Iraqi military spokesman said Friday.
Abu Omar al-Baghdadi was captured Friday in a raid in Abu Ghraib on the western outskirts of Baghdad, said Brig. Gen. Qassim al-Moussawi, spokesman of the Baghdad security operation. U.S. officials had no confirmation of the capture.
"One of the terrorists who was arrested with him confessed that the one in our hands is al-Baghdadi," al-Moussawi said.
Al-Baghdadi has been identified in statements posted on Islamic extremist Web sites as the head of the Islamic State, which was proclaimed last year after the death of the leader of al-Qaida in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.
Al-Baghdadi was said to have headed the Mujahedeen Shura Council, an alliance of al-Qaida and other jihadist organizations, which was set up last year to downplay the role of foreigners in the Iraqi insurgency. The name first surfaced after al-Zarqawi's death, when the Mujahedeen Shura Council posted a condolence message on a militant Web site.
"As for you the slaves of the cross (U.S.-led coalition forces), the grandsons of Ibn al-Alqami (Shiites), and every infidel of the Sunnis, we can't wait to sever your necks with our swords," the message read.
It was signed by Abdullah bin Rashid al-Baghdadi, who was identified as the council leader.
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Last bit was here:http://newportcity.blogspot.com/2007/03/good-news-saturday-more-bits-from-iraq.html
here oh and also here and also here and here And some previous posts on this: first off here oh and here! oh and here oh more here oh and also here oh and here oh and here oh and also here
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