One terrorist leader captured, another killed in Coalition operationsBAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed one terrorist leader and detained 16 suspected terrorists in operations to disrupt the al-Qaeda in Iraq network Friday.
Coalition Forces captured five suspected terrorists during two raids in Baghdad, including an alleged al-Qaeda in Iraq emir whose organization includes a deadly vehicle-borne improvised explosive device cell in the city. At one targeted location, Coalition Forces destroyed two vehicles that were used to transport explosives and personnel for the terrorist network.
Coalition Forces continued to exhaust the terrorist network in Mosul during an operation that killed one terrorist. Outside the targeted building, a man identified as Izz al-Din, also known as Abu Ahmad, drew a weapon on the approaching ground forces. Coalition Forces, reacting to the hostile threat, engaged Abu Ahmad, killing him. One suspected terrorist was detained on scene for his involvement with Abu Ahmad. Abu Ahmad was the head of five terrorist cells in Mosul and was responsible for directing attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces.
In Anbar province, Coalition Force detained an individual suspected of providing fake documents for al-Qaeda leaders and operatives in the Karmah area. Seven other suspected terrorists were also detained for their involvement with al-Qaeda in Iraq and its senior leaders.
“The elimination of al-Qaeda senior leaders will continue to disrupt terrorist operations in Baghdad and around the country,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “Without the obstructive influence of terrorists, the Iraqi people can determine their own future.”
Iraqi Army kills insurgent commander responsible for EFP attacks, six others detained
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army Forces conducted an afternoon operation June 14 that resulted in the death of a commander of an insurgent militia group and the detention of six other suspected insurgents.
The insurgent commander, Shaykh Arkan Hefez Al Zubaydi, was responsible for conducting improvised explosive device attacks on innocent civilians and Iraqi and Coalition Forces in As Suwayrah. He was also suspected of facilitating weapons transfers, ordering attacks on coalition bases, conducting judicial killings and coordinating the abduction and murder of an Iraqi Force member.
While conducting the operation, several suspects fled into a nearby government building. Upon entering the building, Iraqi Forces came under fire and responded with well-aimed fire, which lead to the death of the insurgent commander. Six other suspected insurgents were detained during the operation.
Iraqi Forces also seized two grenades, two pistols, five cell phones and two computers.
Coalition Forces served as advisors during this operation. No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured in the operation.
Iraqi Forces kill three terrorists, nine others detained
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army soldiers conducted an afternoon raid on several residences in northern Iraq June 14 that resulted in the deaths of three al-Qaeda in Iraq members and detained nine other suspected insurgents.
With Coalition advisers present for support, Iraqi Army soldiers raided the residences in the neighborhood of Baqubah searching for the suspected al-Qaeda members.
During the raid, Iraqi soldiers received enemy-fire from several directions. Iraqi soldiers responded with well-aimed fire, which lead to the deaths of three al Qaeda members.
Nine other suspected insurgents were detained during the operation. The primary targets of this operation were allegedly responsible for exerting al Qaeda influence on the local population and conducting attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces.
No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured during this operation.
Iraqi Security Forces detain suspected terrorist cell leader in Baji
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
Taji, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces conducted an early morning raid June 15 and detained a suspected terrorist cell leader who is allegedly responsible for attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces in the Baji area.
Working on tips from local Iraqi citizens, Iraqi forces raided the target building and detained the suspected terrorist leader without incident. One other suspected person was also detained during the operation.
Iraqi forces also seized a computer, several radio and electronic components, six identification cards, two cell phones, and a portable storage device.
No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured during this operation.
Citizen tip leads Wolfhounds to key insurgent leaders
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – An Iraqi citizen tip led Coalition Forces to two wanted insurgent cell leaders and nine other suspected insurgents, who were captured during operations June 15, near the village of Hawijah, 40 miles southwest of the city of Kirkuk.
The two men wanted for coordinating attacks against coalition and Iraqi Security Forces and aiding Al Qaeda in Iraq were captured by Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.
There were no reports of coalition or civilian casualties.
The 2-27 Infantry Battalion is assigned to the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
Multiple-target air assault nets two insurgent leaders, five other suspected insurgents in northern Iraq
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
BAGHDAD – With Coalition Forces present as advisers, Iraqi Army Forces from the city of Irbil in Diyanah Province, conducted an early morning air assault operation in Mashat Village June 6 detaining two insurgent leaders and five suspected insurgents.
The suspects, who have been linked to an al-Qaeda terrorist network operating out of northern Iraq, are allegedly responsible for the June 1 vehicle-borne improvised explosive device in Haychel; the May 13, VBIED attack in Makmoor; the Feb. 13, 2005 attack that killed three Iraqi National Guard Soldiers; and the May 14, 2004 assassination of the Governor of Ninewa.
“Working side by side with their U.S. Special Forces advisors, the Iraqis formulated a plan, rehearsed every possible contingency and waited for the optimum time to strike in order to avoid injury to Civilians and damage to private property,” said the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Arabian Peninsula SOTF North director.
Attacking multiple target houses simultaneously, Iraqi and Coalition Forces detained their primary targets without incident. Five other suspicious individuals were also detained as they attempted to flee the area during the operation.
“The real heroes of this operation are the Iraqi civilians who came forward at great personal risk and provided the information necessary to remove this terrorist cell from their midst,” the director said. “The Iraqi Army unit responsible for this successful operation spent many hours gathering and developing the intelligence for this raid.”
The purpose of the operation, the director said, was to severely disrupt the al-Qaeda network’s ability to conduct assassinations and IED attacks on innocent civilians in Mashat Village, Sharqat District as well as disrupt terrorist activity and influence in the Za’ab triangle north from Baghdad to Mosul or Irbil.
“The removal of these criminals validates the courage, competence and efficiency of the Iraqi forces and sends a clear message to the Iraqi population their security forces stand ready day and night to attack the criminals and terrorists who threaten the security and stability of Iraq,” the director said.
“Their hard work paid off – they achieved total surprise on the target. Disoriented by the speed and violence of the attack and overwhelmed by the numerically superior Coalition Forces, the (suspected) terrorists surrendered without firing a shot.”
Attack helicopters kill IED emplacers
Multi-National Division – North PAO
BAQOUBA, Iraq – Attack helicopters engaged and destroyed anti-Iraqi forces attempting to emplace an IED near Muqdadiyah, June 16.
The attack helicopters from 2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry, 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, observed four insurgents carry a propane tank and begin digging on the side of the road. Two additional insurgents parked a vehicle between the road and the four AIF digging in order to obscure the IED emplacement.
Attack helicopters, armed with hellfire missiles, engaged and killed all six insurgents and destroyed the vehicle.
Coalition ground forces secured the area and recovered the IED.
Two insurgents killed after rocket attack near Samarra
Multi-National Division – North PAO
The insurgents were observed hastily firing three rockets at a nearby Coalition base and immediately fled the scene in their vehicle. Coalition helicopters and aircraft observed them for several miles and destroyed the vehicle and killed both AIF with direct fire.
The insurgent-fired rockets missed their target and there were no Coalition Forces casualties as a result of the attack.
Four terrorists killed, 20 detained in Coalition operations
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed four terrorists and detained 20 suspected terrorists during operations around the country to disrupt the al-Qaeda in Iraq network Saturday.
Coalition Forces launched an operation to capture associates of al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leadership east of Fallujah. As they approached the two targeted buildings, three armed terrorists maneuvered into tactical positions against the ground force. Coalition Forces, reacting to the hostile threat, engaged the terrorists, killing all three.
Within the buildings, the ground force found several military-style ammunition vests and grenades. Five suspected terrorists were detained for their alleged ties to al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders.
In another operation in Anbar province, Coalition Forces detained an individual suspected of making and transporting false documentation for al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders and operatives. Coalition Forces also found identification-making equipment in the suspect’s house.
In Mosul, Coalition Forces killed one terrorist and wounded another armed man during an operation targeting terrorist leaders. As the ground force approached the objective, the two armed men engaged the ground force with small arms fire. Coalition Forces, reacting in self-defense, returned fire, killing one terrorist and wounding the other. The wounded man was taken to a military medical facility for treatment. One suspected terrorist was detained on scene for his alleged ties to a newly appointed al-Qaeda leader.
Two other operations in Mosul netted four detainees who allegedly finance al-Qaeda operations in the area. Intelligence reports indicate three suspects are heavily involved in a network that conducts kidnappings and hijackings to raise money for terrorist activities.
In Baghdad, Coalition Forces detained eight suspected terrorists for their connection to al-Qaeda senior leaders and the Baghdad vehicle-borne improvised explosive device network. On site, Coalition Forces also destroyed one vehicle known to transport personnel and explosives for terrorist activities.
“We continue to assault al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders and their associates,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “Systematically and methodically, their network is crumbling and their manpower pool is dwindling.”One Secret Cell terrorist killed, 10 detained
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraqi and Coalition Forces killed one terrorist, wounded one suspected terrorist and detained 10 suspected terrorists, including one key facilitator and one cell leader, during operations targeting secret cell network operations in Baghdad.
The individuals detained during the raid are believed to be members of the secret cell terrorist network known for facilitating the transport of weapons and explosively formed penetrators, or EFPs, from Iran to Iraq, as well as bringing militants from Iraq to Iran for terrorist training.
During coordinated operations in Sadr City and eastern Baghdad, Iraqi and Coalition Forces detained eight suspected terrorists in eastern Baghdad and two suspected terrorists in Sadr City. During the pre-dawn raids in Sadr City, ground forces came under small arms fire. Using appropriate self defense measures, Coalition Forces returned fire, killing at least one terrorist and wounding one armed suspected terrorist.
Intelligence reports indicate that the cell leader detained during the morning’s operation in Sadr City is associated with a kidnapping cell and is believed to be directly involved in the November Ministry of Health kidnappings. Additionally, intelligence reports indicate that the targeted individual’s cell specializes in the emplacement of improvised explosive devises and EFPs.
Intelligence reports also indicate that the key facilitator detained in eastern Baghdad has direct contact with high level key leaders in the secret cell terrorist networks. He is also believed to be responsible for the facilitation of Iran lethal aid as well as directing attacks on Coalition Forces.
“This morning’s operations bring the terrorist and extremist networks another step closer to defeat, and bring the people of Iraq another step closer to establishing a safer and more secure environment,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.
Rashid sheiks meet to discuss peace, progress
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD — More than 60 sheiks from across the Al-Rashid District met June 13 at the District Council Hall to discuss the way ahead at the founding Conference of Sheiks.
The meeting of 67 sheiks, both Sunni and Shia, was called by Sheik Faisel Karem Jabour Al Saadi, the Al Rashid District Council Sheik Council chairman and by Sabeeh Al-Ka’abi, the District Council chairman. It was viewed by Coalition Forces as a first step into bringing tribal leaders into the transition process in southern Baghdad.
Besides security issues, the meeting also covered the negative impacts of sectarian violence and the status of essential services. During the meeting, the attendees agreed to meet again and to have a better mix of Sunni and Shia sheiks present.
Col. Ricky D. Gibbs, the commander of the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, whose units patrol the district, who was invited to speak at the meeting. He asked the tribal leaders to take the lead in their own security.
“The violence in Baghdad and the Rashid District is crushing the people of Iraq,” said the Harker Heights, Texas, native. “I foresee a great nation with all people living together in peace. To get there, we all have to work together.”
Gibbs highlighted the gains made in the Anbar and Diyala provinces against al-Qaeda and other terrorists by Iraqis working in conjunction with Coalition Forces.
“The people in Anbar, Diyala and other areas of Baghdad are showing their courage by standing up to terrorists and improving the stability of their provinces,” he said. “Together, you can do this.”
After asking how his Dragon Brigade could assist, Gibbs said he couldn’t stop the violence without the influence the sheiks have over their tribes.
“I sat with Maj. Gen. Abdul Ameer ,deputy commander of the Iraqi Karkh Command and the 6th Iraqi Army Division commander,, one of the Iraqi Army’s great leaders recently and he said that it is the people who must rise against the terrorists and criminals who are harming Iraq.”
Gibbs told the tribal leaders that more than $110 million has been spent on rebuilding Iraqi infrastructure and highlighted the Dora Market and the district’s own advisory council as examples of success.
“The market is a shining star for all the world to see,” he said. “It shows the Iraqi strength and resolve to push past the violence and reject terrorism.”
He also asked for the sheiks’ help in speeding up reconstruction efforts by “ensuring the workers on the projects are from your neighborhoods and keeping the contractors working.”
Besides Colonel Gibbs, Iraqi Brig. Gen. Salam, Omar Jabouri, Amar Al-Moamorai, Iraqi Col. Mahdy Jassim and Sheik Faisel spoke during the conference.
“I have been to Iraq three times,” Gibbs said during his remarks. “The next time I come, I would like to bring my family here on vacation to spend time with your families and the wonderful citizens of Iraq.”
Multi-National Division – Center PAO
BAGHDAD — Coalition Forces attack helicopters, supporting Iraqi army soldiers who were engaged by insurgents, killed four insurgents and wounded three during joint operations with the Iraqi Army south of Baghdad June 15.
The insurgents fired on the helicopters as they approached and continued firing as they ran into a nearby structure. One of the AH-64s fired on the structure, destroying it.
Three sniper rifles, multiple hand grenades and black masks were found by the Iraqi army outside the structure.
10 terrorists killed, 20 detained in Coalition operations
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed 10 terrorists, detained 20 suspected terrorists and uncovered enemy weapons and bomb-making materials during operations targeting the al-Qaeda in Iraq network Saturday and Sunday.
Coalition Forces captured two suspected terrorists during a raid in Baghdad Saturday targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders in the city. One of the detainees is allegedly a senior leader in the area who oversees al-Qaeda in Iraq operations and supervised several individuals detained in successful Coalition operations over the past week.
Sunday morning, Coalition Forces targeted several buildings near Karmah that intelligence reports indicated were associated with a Libyan foreign fighter involved in suicide bombing operations. As Coalition Forces approached the first building, seven armed terrorists engaged the ground force with small arms fire. Coalition Forces, responding in self-defense, engaged the seven armed men, killing six and wounding one. The wounded terrorist fled the scene.
Coalition Forces caught the wounded terrorist and two other suspected terrorists as they moved from the first building into the second. The wounded individual was taken to a military medical facility for treatment and the two suspected terrorists were detained.
During a search of the area, Coalition Forces found improvised explosive device-making materials, weapons, and a vehicle containing a heavy machine gun and hand grenades. Coalition Forces safely destroyed the IED materials, vehicle and weapons on site and detained another seven suspected terrorists for their involvement with foreign fighters and al-Qaeda in Iraq suicide bombing operations.
During another Sunday raid in Anbar province, Coalition Forces targeted associates of an al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leader. As the ground force arrived at the buildings near Zaydon, they awakened three men outside the building. One man drew a pistol while the other two reached for weapons. Coalition Forces responded to the hostile threat and engaged the armed men with small arms fire, killing them.
Another armed man nearby moved into a tactical position against the ground force, and Coalition Forces, perceiving a hostile threat, engaged the armed man, killing him.
Inside the targeted buildings, Coalition Forces detained two suspected terrorists allegedly involved with the al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leader network. The ground force also discovered a truck rigged with wires and other indications of vehicle-borne IEDs. An explosives team safely destroyed the VBIED on site.
In Mosul Sunday, Coalition Forces continued to assault the city’s terrorist network, capturing a suspected smuggler and four other suspected terrorists involved in IED attacks. Intelligence reports indicate the alleged smuggler operated a taxi and transported terrorist operatives, weapons, funds and letters between Iraq and Syria. He is also suspected of involvement in the murder of a female worker at Badush prison in January.
“We are relentlessly attacking the al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders and networks that seek to derail progress in the country,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “Terrorists have no place in the future of Iraq.”One insurgent killed, 3 captured in Adhamiyah
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD — What started as a routine patrol turned into a shootout that left one insurgent dead and three others in custody after an intense 20-minute gun battle on the streets of Baghdad’s Adhamiyah District June 16.
Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment were on a mounted patrol when they began receiving small arms fire from a small group of ski mask-wearing insurgents on a rooftop. The Soldiers returned fire and the insurgents fled. A wild chase through the city streets followed as the Soldiers attempted to cut off the insurgents’ escape route.
As they rounded a corner, the Soldiers were engaged by a larger group of insurgents firing rocket-propelled grenades. Again the Soldiers returned fire, forcing several of the insurgents to seek cover in a walled courtyard on a side street. Clouds of dust and smoke filled the narrow street as volleys of fire went back and forth. The exchange continued until Pfc. Ismel Sanchez, of Greensboro, N.C. lobbed a grenade over the wall, silencing the insurgents’ guns.
When the Soldiers moved inside to clear the courtyard, they found three insurgents, one mortally wounded. Another insurgent who was attempting to hide in the house next door was quickly identified and detained.
While the Soldiers were still securing the area, several insurgents armed with RPGs appeared at the end of the street and began firing at the U.S. vehicles. The turret gunner in the lead truck laid down suppressive fire, but his 7.62 mm ammunition was no match for the brick wall the insurgents were using as cover.
While Sgt. Jake Richardson of St. Johns, Ariz. kept the insurgents’ heads down with his M203 grenade launcher, Staff Sgt. Michael Mullahy of Batvaia, Ill. retrieved an AT4 rocket launcher from one of the trucks. Placing himself directly in the line of fire, Mullahy sighted the AT4 and fired, leveling the wall and forcing the insurgents to retreat.
“They were firing at us from behind cover, so I took away their cover,” Mullahy said.
Mullahy’s shot ended the engagement. Once the area was secured, the suspects were loaded into vehicles and transported back to the company’s base for further questioning.
When they returned, the Soldiers who had been in contact were greeted with a warrior’s cheer from those who stayed back. Richardson summed up the engagement in one sentence for a friend who asked him what happened.
“It was a cute little fight that turned real sour for the bad guys,” he said.
There were no U.S. Soldiers injured during the engagement.
Iraqi Forces detain terrorist facilitator in Kirkuk
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
TAJI – Iraqi Security Forces conducted an early-morning ground-assault raid and detained an alleged facilitator of terrorist networks between Iraq and Iran in southwest Kirkuk June 16.
With coalition advisers present for support, Iraqi Forces raided the residence in southwest Kirkuk and detained their primary target without incident.
The primary suspect detained is alleged to be responsible for transporting Jaysh al-Mahdi insurgents to Iran for training and then back into Iraq. He is also suspected of facilitating recruits and paying financial matters. These activities contribute to the terrorist networks that are bringing explosive devices from Iran to Iraq.
No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured during this operation.
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
SAMARRA – Iraqi Security Forces, who were sent to Samarra by the Prime Minister to establish security in the wake of the June 13 Askariya Mosque bombing, conducted an operation and detained four suspected terrorists who are believed to have information regarding the attack.
The four individuals are believed to be linked to the recent bombing and other criminal activity in Samarra.
Acting on previous intelligence, Iraqi Security Forces raided the target building and detained the four individuals without incident.
Iraqi forces also seized several documents of propaganda, a CD showing attacks against Coalition Forces, several cell phones, 10-feet of detonation cord, 81 blasting caps, identification cards for Askariya Mosque access and multiple photos depicting terrorist training.
Coalition Forces served as advisors during the operation. No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured during this operation.
Civilian tips net massive explosive cache
Multi-National Division – North PAO
MOSUL, Iraq – An Iraqi civilian tip led Iraqi Army Soldiers to a massive explosives cache southwest of Mosul June 15.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, used the information provided by a local citizen to uncover more than 1,600 pounds of propellant and various artillery charges.
The cache find near Mosul marks the second significant successful operation against al-Qaeda operatives in as many days.
On June 14, Coalition Forces in Kirkuk captured two al-Qaeda cell leaders and several associates. The intelligence used to launch that operation also came from a local tip.
“Iraqi citizens are making a choice to stand with their Iraqi Security Forces and the Coalition,” said Maj. Gen. Benjamin R. Mixon, commanding general, Task Force Lightning and Multinational Division-North. “We are seeing that many Iraqis are thoroughly disgusted with al-Qaeda and their violence. Many of these recent successful raids and discoveries are in a large part due to the greater amount of information and cooperation the Iraqi people are providing.”
CF killed Sa’id Hamza, during an operation targeting the al-Qaeda in Iraq network in Mosul June 12. Local tips were also a key to the success in that raid.
Sa’id Hamza was known to be the al-Qaeda in Iraq military emir of Mosul. Intelligence reports indicated he planned, coordinated and facilitated suicide bombings in the Mosul area.
“The Iraqi people are growing confidence in the ISF and choosing stability and security. They are bringing us information on al-Qaeda because they are disgusted with the indiscriminate violence al-Qaeda uses to intimidate Iraqi citizens,” Mixon concluded.
Coalition Forces disrupt Secret Cell terrorist network
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed at least 20 terrorists, wounded six suspected terrorists and detained one suspected terrorist during operations targeting Secret Cells operating in Amarah and Majjar al-Kabir.
The individuals detained during the raid is believed to be members of the secret cell terrorist network known for facilitating the transport of weapons and explosively formed penetrators, or EFPs, from Iran to Iraq, as well as bringing militants from Iraq to Iran for terrorist training.
In coordination with the Government of Iraq, Coalition Forces conducted coordinated raids in the Maysan province of eastern Iraq. During the morning’s operations, Coalition Forces came under heavy small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenade attacks in both Amarah and Majjar al-Kabir. Using appropriate escalation of force measures, ground forces were forced to use close air support to suppress the enemy fire. During the close air support, at least 20 terrorists were killed and six suspected terrorists were assessed to be wounded by the strafing. A vehicle being used by the terrorists as a fighting position was also destroyed by the close air support.
Intelligence reports indicate that both Amarah and Majjar al-Kabir are known safe havens and smuggling routes for Secret Cell terrorists who facilitate Iranian lethal aid. Reports further indicate that Iranian surrogates, or Iraqis that are liaisons for Iranian intelligence operatives into Iraq, use both Amarah and Majjar al-Kabir as safe haven locations.
“Terrorists learned this morning that there is no safe haven in Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “Coalition Forces will seek out and find terrorists anywhere and everywhere in Iraq.”
Coalition raids target al-Qaeda; one terrorist killed, 15 suspects detained
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed one terrorist and detained 15 suspected terrorists Monday and Tuesday during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq.
Coalition Forces raided a building in Baghdad Monday and captured a suspected terrorist linked to a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device network. The detainee allegedly obtains supplies and components for the Baghdad VBIED cell.
South of Baghdad, Coalition Forces raided a series of buildings Tuesday, targeting associates of an al-Qaeda in Iraq emir in the area. As the ground force approached the buildings, a man ran out of the house and rushed toward Coalition Forces, ignoring their translator’s instructions to stop. Coalition Forces, reacting appropriately to the perceived hostile threat, engaged the man with small arms fire, killing him. Inside the building, Coalition Forces detained one suspected terrorist with alleged ties to the targeted emir.
Coalition Forces captured a suspected associate of al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders in Baghdad Tuesday. In an objective targeting three buildings, the ground force detained three individuals suspected of being associated with terrorist leaders and found a small cache of weapons. An explosives team safely destroyed the weapons on site.
In Anbar province, two separate Coalition Forces operations Tuesday netted six suspected terrorists associated with al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders. Three individuals were detained south of Fallujah for their alleged involvement with a terrorist leader in charge of planting IEDs and organizing terrorist groups in the area. Three more men were detained west of Tarmiyah for their suspected association with terrorist leaders.
Tuesday in Mosul, Coalition Forces carried out two raids targeting individuals involved in a terrorist cell known for carrying out hijacking and kidnapping operations to finance other terrorist activities. The ground force detained two suspected terrorists during the assault.
“Our continued pressure on the leaders and operatives of the al Qaeda network is denying them breathing space in Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “The crumbling network has no place in the future of Iraq.”
8 extremists killed, 2 detained during operations in Baqouba
Multi-National Division – North PAO
BAQOUBA, Iraq – Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army engaged and killed four extremist gunmen during two separate engagements in the city of Baqouba, Monday.
In the engagement, Iraqi Security Forces reported receiving fire from a sniper, maneuvered and returned fire, killing four gunmen and detaining two other suspects.
In a separate engagement, Coalition attack helicopters from the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, working with Coalition Forces on the ground, identified four extremists operating in a wooded area in another portion of Baqubah. Attack helicopters engaged and killed the four extremists.
Six IED cell members arrested
Multi-National Division – Center PAO
BAGHDAD — Six members of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device cell were arrested June 16, southwest of Baghdad.
Operation Nijmegen, conducted by Company C, 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, netted a cell leader with ties to persons of interest in the area.
Two AK-47 machine guns, nine magazines in bandoleers and vests, two 9mm pistols, five cell phones and a set of binoculars were also confiscated in the operation.
National police repel attack in Samarra
Multi-National Division – North PAO
TIKRIT, Iraq – National Police repelled an attack on their outpost by unknown gunmen in Samarra June 18.
More than 2,000 Iraqi soldiers and policemen moved into Samarra to provide additional security for its citizens following the recent attack on the Askira Mosque June 13.
NPs were occupying and conducting patrols about two miles from the Askira Mosque when gunmen attacked with small-arms fire and a suicide car bomb. NPs defended their outpost, returning fire from a nearby checkpoint and repelling the attack with minimal casualties.
“This demonstrates total lack of respect for the Askira Mosque in light of its recent attack,” said Col. Bryan Owens, commander, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. “The policemen injured were dedicated to protecting the mosque from any future attacks.”
The car bomb damaged the outside of a school and other buildings in the immediate area. There was no damage to the Askira Mosque.
Two NPs injured in the attack were transported to a Coalition Forces’ medical facility for treatment.
Operation Castine nets four suspected car bomb makers
2nd BCT, 82nd Airborne Division
Public Affairs Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD — Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces conducted a cordon and search operation in the Adhamiyah District June 18, resulting in the capture of three suspects caught with materials used in the manufacture of car bombs. A fourth suspect was also detained during the operation.
“Operation Castine” was conducted by Soldiers from the U.S. Army 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment and Soldiers from the 1st Brigade, 11th Iraqi Army Division.
The operation began before sunrise, when U.S. and Iraqi forces made a tactical foot movement from Coalition Outpost Apache into the Safina neighborhood of Adhamiyah. For the next five hours, Soldiers moved up and down the narrow city streets, searching hundreds of homes looking for illegal weapons and other contraband.
“Coalition and Iraqi forces are going to continue to conduct aggressive operations like this, until extremists get the message that Adhamiyah is not a place where they can operate,” said Fort Worth, Texas native Capt. Cecil Strickland, commander of Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment.
MND-B Soldiers capture suspected bomb-maker, 13 others
1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div.
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
CAMP TAJI, Iraq — Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers captured a suspected member of an alleged bomb-making cell in Sab al Bor, Iraq June 19.
Soldiers from Battery C, 1st Battalion, 37th Field Artillery, attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, captured the suspect using information from intelligence sources. In all, the unit detained 14 suspects for questioning during the operation.
“This offensive as part of the surge is allowing us to continually target both Shiite and Sunni extremist groups,” said Austin, Texas native Lt. Col. Peter Andrysiak, deputy commanding officer, 1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. “This (IED cell) is a group known for targeting Coalition Forces and inciting sectarian violence.”
The raid was part of a large-scale, sector-wide initiative to eliminate threats to Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces, and to curb violence in the area north of the Iraqi capital.
3-1 Cavalry destroys barge to interdict smuggling
Multi-National Division – Center PAO
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq — Soldiers from the 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment destroyed one barge on the Tigris River June 16 near Salman Pak to deter the smuggling of ammunition and bomb-making materials into Baghdad.
The boat ignored several warnings to stop and come ashore. Residents were warned to stay off the river during the operations.
Boats traveling near this area of the Tigris River are not used by local residents for fishing, said Iraqi officials. The qada, or county, mayor estimates that all boat traffic on the Tigris in that area is linked to smuggling, said the 3rd HBCT Deputy Commander, Lt. Col. Ryan J. Kuhn, from Clarks, Neb.
The 3rd HBCT Soldiers have witnessed individuals smuggling ammunition or bomb-making materials across the Tigris, according to the 3rd HBCT Executive Officer, Maj. Dewey Boberg, from Anaheim, Calif.
The 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, is part of the 3rd Infantry Division and Multi-National Division-Center. Elements of MND-C are currently executing Marne Torch, deliberate operations to deny insurgent and terrorist sanctuaries southeast of Baghdad. Operations are being conducted southeast of Baghdad, to include Arab Jabour on the west side of the Tigris and Salman Pak and Jisr Diyala on the east side of the river.
U.S., Iraqis team up in Rusafa, find 70 pounds of explosives
2nd IBCT, 2nd Inf. Div.
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq — Soldiers with the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division and Iraqi Police detained two suspects and uncovered a quantity of explosives June 17.
A jointly-manned checkpoint witnessed a vehicle stop and turn around after seeing Coalition Forces with the Iraqi Police. Soldiers with Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, based out of Colorado Springs, Colo., joined with the 3rd Battalion, 8th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division in a pursuit of the vehicle.
After stopping the vehicle, two individuals exited the vehicles and started running away. Both individuals were caught. After searching the vehicle, more than 70 pounds of explosives were found in the trunk of the car.
The two suspects have been detained for questioning and the explosives were destroyed in a controlled detonation by an explosive ordnance team in a secure area.
CCCI Convicts 99: Sentences 16 to death, 7 to life imprisonment
BAGHDAD, Iraq – The Central Criminal Court of Iraq (CCCI) convicted 99 individuals from May 20 to June 2 for violations of the Iraqi Terrorist Law, Penal Code and Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) Orders enforced by the Iraqi judiciary.
Six Iraqis were convicted of torture and kidnapping and sentenced to death May 20. Convicted were: Moaazea Khazaal Abdul, 47; Hussein Jihad Hassan, 51; Abd Al Qadar Qasim Jameel, 35; Mustafa Mahmoud Ismael, 31; Qais Habib Aslem, 50; and Islam Mustafa Abd Al Sattar, 20; all from Iraq. The six kidnapped and tortured an Iraqi man, his son and nephew and held them for $100,000 ransom near the Adhamiyah district in Baghdad. Before being captured by Soldiers from the 1st Battalion 26th Infantry Regiment Sept. 26, 2006, the group killed the man’s nephew. The six were convicted of violating Article 424 of the Iraqi Penal Code.
The Central Criminal Court sentenced Marwan Jassim Hamadi, 21; Ali Akil Abass, 19; and Talab Abulla Abbas, 26, to death May 21 for kidnapping and torturing an Iraqi man in Al Anbar province. Marines from the 3rd Recon Battalion, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, captured the terrorists Nov. 28, 2006 – less than five hours before the terrorists were planning to execute the Iraqi man they had kidnapped. The three were convicted of violating Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law.
Faris Abdallah Alwan, 27, was sentenced to death May 20 by the Central Criminal Court of Iraq for serving as the media and propaganda emir for a terrorist organization. He was captured by Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Division (Airborne) Dec. 13, 2006 in Baghdad. Faris was convicted for distributing and posting terrorist propaganda on websites in violation of Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law.
Ali Ahmad Abd Al Wahid, 23, and Fawwaz Mukhlif Al Qaydi, 28, were sentenced to death by the CCCI May 28 for violating Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law. Ali, a Libyan citizen, and Fawwaz, a Saudi Arabian citizen, both came to Iraq to conduct terrorist operations. They were captured by Iraqi Army units in Al Anbar and were turned over to Multi-National Forces Feb. 20, 2007.
Ahmed Nory Mohammed, 29, and Hosham Bidawe, 27, were sentenced to death May 30 for engaging in terrorist acts, including kidnapping. The two Iraqis were captured Jan. 9, 2007 by Marines from the 3rd Recon Battalion, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force prior to carrying out a planned execution of an Iraqi doctor. The two were convicted of violating Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law.
Dawud Salaman Al Ubydi, 39, an admitted member of Al Qaeda, was sentenced to death May 30 for participating in suicide bombing and vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks on the Sheraton and Al Hamah hotels and arranging transportation for Al Qaeda numerous times for various operations. Dawud was captured Sept. 28, 2006 and was convicted of violating Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law.
Mohammed Ali Khorshed, 29, was sentenced to death May 30 by the CCCI. Mohammed was the Ansar Al Sunna Military Emir of Baqubah and was responsible for supervising up to 50 insurgents. He admitted to conducting numerous IED attacks against Multi-National Forces and was convicted of violating Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law.
In addition to the death penalty sentences, the Central Criminal Court of Iraq sentenced seven Iraqi’s to life imprisonment May 21 and 22 for violating Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law and Article 421 of the Iraq Penal Code for kidnapping.
The Central Criminal Court of Iraq also sentenced seven Iraqis to 30 years imprisonment and 11 Iraqis to 20 years imprisonment for violating CPA Order 3/2003, illegal weapons possession. Twelve Iraqis were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for organizing, heading, leading or joining an armed group, a violation of Article 194 of the Iraqi Penal Code. Fourteen Iraqis were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for illegal weapons possession, a violation of CPA Order 3/2003. Two Iraqis were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for violating Article 4/1 of the Iraqi Terrorist Law and two others were sentenced to 15 years for violating Article 10/1 of the Iraqi Passport Law.
Four Iraqis were sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for violating Article 10/1 of the Iraqi Passport Law; three were sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for violating CPA Order 3/2003, illegal weapons possession; and two were sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for using explosives to harm others, a violation of Article 345 of the Iraqi Penal Code.
Twelve Iraqis were convicted of violating CPA Order 3/2003, possession of illegal weapons, and were sentenced to one to seven years imprisonment; two were convicted of violating Article 27/3 of the Iraqi Penal Code for possession of illegal weapons and were sentenced to one year imprisonment. Five Iraqis were sentenced to two to seven years imprisonment for illegal use of documents, counterfeiting, and using explosives to harm others.
Since its establishment under an amendment to CPA Order 13, in April 2004, the Central Criminal Court has held 2,211 trials for suspected criminals apprehended by Coalition Forces. The Iraqi Court proceedings have resulted in the conviction of 1,957 individuals with sentences ranging from imprisonment to death.Coalition takes 11 suspected terrorists out of al-Qaeda’s network
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 11 suspected terrorists Wednesday and Thursday during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq.
Wednesday morning, Coalition Forces conducted two operations in Mosul targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders in the area. Two suspected terrorists were detained for their suspected involvement with a Kurdish extremist in the al-Qaeda network and a terrorist emir of western Mosul.
Thursday, Coalition Forces raided five buildings east of Karmah searching for an al-Qaeda in Iraq emir suspected of attacks against Coalition Forces and Iraqi infrastructure. The ground force captured three suspected terrorists, including an alleged subordinate of the al-Qaeda emir. East of Fallujah, a raid targeting associates of al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders netted four suspected terrorists.
North of Baghdad Thursday, Coalition Forces detained two suspected terrorists for their association with a key member of the al-Qaeda in Iraq network linked to several terrorist groups and vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks.
“Each operation we conduct provides additional information about the best way for us to attack al-Qaeda and strike their networks,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “It’s getting more difficult for them to hide.”
Suspected insurgent leader, associate detained in Fallujah
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
FALLUJAH, Iraq – Iraqi Army Forces conducted a series of raids June 18 detaining an alleged insurgent leader and his associate in the Al Shuhada District of Fallujah.
With Coalition Forces present as advisers, Iraqi soldiers detained their two primary suspects and an additional person of interest without incident. Various documents and identification cards were also seized during the operation.
The detained individuals are suspected of supporting insurgent activities throughout the Al Anbar Province. The alleged leader was also purportedly very active within the insurgency during the first and second battles of Fallujah.
No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured during this operation.
Iraqi Forces break up sniper cell, detain five
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO
TAJI – Iraqi Forces conducted an early-morning raid June 19 to breakup a terrorist sniper cell in the Bayji area of northern Iraq.
During the raid, Iraqi Forces successfully raided the target objectives, detaining their primary suspect and four others for further questioning.
Besides the five individuals detained, Iraqi Forces confiscated a sniper rifle, three AK-47 assault rifles, a 9mm pistol, associated ammunition as well as improvised explosive device making materials.
No Iraqi or Coalition Forces, who were present for support, were injured during the operation.
Roadside bombers stopped, explosives seized
4th IBCT, 1st Inf. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
BAGHDAD — Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers stopped an insurgent team placing an improvised explosive device during clearing operations in the East Rashid security district of the Iraqi capital, June 20.
Soldiers from Company B, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment “Warriors” positively identified two individuals placing an initiator at the end of a command wire on an IED and opened fire killing one and wounding another.
Later in the day, “Tomahawks” of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment discovered a 100-pound bag of homemade explosives with wires, and improvised rocket launchers during operations.
Coalition Forces kill 17 al-Qaeda gunmen near Khalis
Multi-National Division – North PAO
BAQOUBA, Iraq – Coalition Forces attack helicopters engaged and killed 17 al-Qaeda gunmen southwest of Khalis, Friday.
Iraqi police were conducting security operations in and around the village when Coalition attack helicopters from the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade and ground forces from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, observed more than 15 armed men attempting to circumvent the IPs and infiltrate the village.
The attack helicopters, armed with missiles, engaged and killed 17 al-Qaeda gunmen and destroyed the vehicle they were using.(Owned!)
‘Arrowhead Ripper’ continues to pressure al-Qaida
Multi-National Division – North PAO
BAQOUBA, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces teamed with Task Force Lightning units, Thursday, to clear Baqouba and surrounding areas as Operation Arrowhead Ripper continued.
“We are shoulder-to-shoulder with Iraqi Security Forces in this fight,” said Brig. Gen. Mick Bednarek, deputy commanding general, operations, and commander of Operation Arrowhead Ripper. “Specifically the 5th Iraqi Army Division led by Maj. Gen. Saleem Kariem Ali Alotbei, along with the provincial director of police, Maj. Gen. Ganim, have provided the Iraqi security forces to the fight.
The weeks ahead are absolutely key in not only holding and retaining the ground that is cleared in partnership with Coalition Forces, but also in building trust and confidence with the citizens of Diyala.”
In support of the operation, attack helicopters from 2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Squadron, 82nd Attack Reconnaissance Battalion provided assistance to Iraqi and Coalition ground forces, killing at least 13 al-Qaida operatives and destroying an al-Qaida compound during the second day of the operation.
“Over the last three days, the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade has provided Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition infantry brigade combat teams, attack, scout and transportation helicopters. These assets give Coalition and Iraqi ground forces the added support they need to eliminate or contain al-Qaida during operation Arrowhead Ripper in Baqouba,” said Lt. Col. Gregory Baker, deputy commanding officer, 25th CAB.
In a separate engagement, CF Soldiers discovered an empty school complex rigged with explosives in Baqouba, the capital city of Diyala province, Thursday, during Operation Arrowhead Ripper.
Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment discovered the booby-trapped school complex. An investigation of the area determined the school and surrounding buildings had been abandoned.
CF had to destroy the school due to risk to the community. CF were unable to disable the explosives because of instability. Ground forces effectively coordinated a precisions guided munitions strike and successfully destroyed the school-borne IED. There were no civilian injuries or deaths as a result of this action.
“Jointly with ISF, and the citizens of Baqouba, we are beginning to root out al-Qaida operatives and safely neutralize their traps,” said Bednarek.
As Arrowhead Ripper continued through June 21, at least 51 al-Qaida operatives have been killed, with 20 al-Qaida operatives detained, seven weapons caches discovered, 21 improvised explosive devices destroyed and nine booby-trapped structures destroyed.
Coalition partners donate wheelchairs to Iraqis
Multi-National Division – Central South PAO
BAGHDAD – One hundred and ten wheelchairs, school supplies and soccer equipment were donated to the 8th Iraqi Army Division by the Multi-National Division-Central South Civil Military Cooperation Group to be delivered to the Iraqi citizens in Al-Quadisiyah and Wasit Province.
There are an estimated several thousand disabled Iraqi citizens in the provinces who could benefit from the donation, according to Civil Military Cooperation Group officials.
The donations were provided by the U.S. public affairs structure and are scheduled to be handed over for distribution next week, said Lt. Col. Andrzej Dylong, the commander of the Poilish CIMIC group.
MND-B Soldiers detain 18 in raids
By Maj. Randall Baucom
1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
CAMP TAJI, Iraq — Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers conducted three raids in northwestern Baghdad, detaining 18 suspects as well as weapons and equipment June 21.
Soldiers from the 1st “Ironhorse” Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division conducted three early morning raids, targeting terrorist cells believed responsible for improvised explosive attacks in the region.
“We continue to apply pressure to al-Qaeda and anti-Iraqi forces by capturing them and eliminating the safe havens from which these terrorists operate,” said Austin, Texas native Lt. Col. Peter Andrysiak, the deputy commander for the Ironhorse Brigade. “The surge has allowed us to keep an increased presence in the rural area of northwest Baghdad, so we can provide improved security for the people in this region.”
Soldiers from Battery C, 1st Battalion, 37th Field Artillery conducted an air assault raid on a residence determined, by intelligence sources, to be an insurgent safe house near the town of Shammar Jarba. Four suspects were detained for questioning, including those suspected to be responsible for IED attacks on Highway 1, as well as, assisting in IED attacks in the Taji area.
Near the village of Al Awad, Scouts from Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment conducted a dismounted raid on a suspected insurgent safe house. Inside the home, the Soldiers detained five suspects, including one suspect believed to be responsible for coordinating car bomb attacks against Coalition Forces in an area west of Taji, Iraq. The troops also seized a high-powered rifle with a scope, a pistol, a rocket-propelled grenade scope and a flare gun.
West of Kem village, Soldiers from Company A, 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment conducted a dismounted raid on another suspected safe house. Nine suspects were detained in this operation.
All of the suspects are being detained for further questioning.
7 terrorists killed, 10 detained, bombs destroyed
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed seven terrorists and detained 10 suspected terrorists during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders and operatives Friday and Saturday.
Coalition Forces targeted an al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leader during a Saturday raid in Tikrit. While the ground force was securing the target building, a vehicle approached on the road at a high rate of speed. Ground force elements on the road attempted to stop the vehicle with visual and audio signals. When the vehicle continued to speed toward them, Coalition Forces engaged the vehicle to stop it, and killed two men inside. The vehicle swerved and lodged in a fence, where the ground forces found an improvised explosive device on the back seat. Coalition Forces cleared civilians from the area and called in an air strike to destroy the vehicle, which produced secondary explosions after the strike.
Inside the building, Coalition Forces detained two suspected terrorists with alleged ties to the targeted al-Qaeda in Iraq leader.
East of Fallujah, Coalition Forces raided four buildings Saturday while looking for associates of a high-level al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist. As Coalition Forces advanced on the building, a group of armed men fired on them from a nearby patch of reeds. Reacting to the hostile threat, the ground force called in close air support to engage the armed men. Five men armed with rifles, light machine guns and grenades were killed in the strike.
Coalition Forces discovered two vehicles outside the building with ammunition, hand grenades and mortar rounds inside. The ground force moved the vehicles away from buildings and civilians and safely destroyed the munitions on site.
Based on information gained from an operation June 16, Coalition Forces targeted an area south of Baghdad Saturday and captured an alleged member of the Baghdad vehicle-borne IED network. The suspect is also believed to provide foreign fighters and weapons to the network.
Coalition Forces captured an alleged Kurdish extremist associated with attacks in northern Iraq areas during a Friday raid in Mosul. The suspect is believed to be involved in facilitating the movement of foreign fighters, as well as conducting financial and media operations for al-Qaeda in Iraq. Four other suspected terrorists were detained in nearby raids.
“We will continue targeting terrorist who are seeking to derail Iraq’s progress,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “As they continue to operate and identify themselves by committing terrorist acts, we will continue to hunt them down.”CF, ISF searches yield torture chamber, bomb-rigged houses in Baqouba
Multi-National Division – North PAO
BAQOUBA, Iraq – On day four of Operation Arrowhead Ripper, Task Force Lightning and Iraqi soldiers continued sweeping through Baqouba, Iraq, to root out al-Qaida in Iraq.
CF Soldiers worked shoulder-to-shoulder with the Iraqi soldiers and police officers in and around the city during the operations. Coalition ground forces and air support provided critical assistance in targeting and destroying al-Qaida operatives and their safe havens.
In the Khatoon neighborhood of Baqouba, ISF and CF discovered a building suspected of being used as a torture chamber. Ground forces observed various weapons, including knives and saws, inside the building as well as blood stains throughout the building. After securing the area, the building and its contents were destroyed by an attack helicopter armed with Hellfire missiles.
Also in Khatoon, CF destroyed two houses that contained 45 water heaters filled with homemade explosives, IED making materials and computer equipment. One of the houses also contained several booby trapped freezers.
Iraqi police were conducting security operations in and around the village of Khalis when Coalition attack helicopters from the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade and ground forces from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, observed 15-20 armed men attempting to circumvent the IPs and infiltrate the village.
The attack helicopters, armed with missiles, engaged and killed 17 al-Qaida gunmen and destroyed the vehicle they were using.
Since the beginning of Operation Arrowhead Ripper, at least 55 al-Qaida operatives have been killed, 23 have been detained, 16 weapons caches have been discovered, 28 improvised explosive devices have been destroyed and 12 booby-trapped structures have been destroyed.
Tags:Iraq
MNF Iraq
Al Qaeda
War on Terror
Iraqi Army
101st Fighting Keyboardists
0 people have spoken:
Post a Comment