More good news from Iraq

First off this one, that shows that the Iraqi people are standing up rebuilding their armed forces and want to rule themselves rather than be terrorised by al quada. Such a shame that our national broadcaster would rather do down our troops and act as little more than a mouthpiece for flea infested terrorists.

Iraqi Special Operations Forces capture twelve suspected insurgents
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

DIWANIJAH – Iraqi Special Operations Forces detained twelve insurgents linked to a rogue Jaysh al-Mahdi militia during two separate intelligence driven operations in Baghdad June 8. These insurgents are allegedly responsible for attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces. With Coalition Forces along as advisors, ISOF detained the targeted individuals without incident.

In the first operation, ISOF detained 11 targeted individuals believed responsible for attacks using explosively formed penetrators against Iraqi and Coalition Forces in the Hay al-Aamel area.

In the second operation the ISOF detained the alleged leader of a cell responsible for direct and indirect fire, and improvised explosive devices attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces. His capture will disrupt this cell’s ability to carry out death squad activities against innocent civilians.

ISOF seized weapons and ammunition, cell phones and assorted documents during these operations.
No Iraqi or coalition forces were injured during this operation.

Three insurgents killed, four detained in attack
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

BAGHDAD — An air weapons team killed three insurgents July 7 in Jisr Diyala, Iraq.

Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 1st Cavalry Regiment and 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment were securing a youth center for a medical assistance operation when they received small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire. An air weapons team responded to the attack engaging insurgents and a vehicle containing a mortar tube.

Four individuals were detained in the attack. One insurgent was wounded and treated.

Tipsters lead to capture south Baghdad’s most wanted terrorist, cache
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

AL-DHOUR, Iraq — With two well-timed phone calls, Iraqi civilians made some Soldiers’ day July 9.

The first tipster called Troop C, 1st Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) out of Fort Drum, N.Y., and alerted them to a cache south of the village of Al-Dhour, Iraq, south of Baghdad.

The troop responded, located the buried weapons, and was only five minutes into the process of digging them up when they got another call.

A man claimed he had the 2nd BCT’s top high-value target and would deliver him to coalition custody. The man and Capt. Adam Sawyer, Troop C commander, agreed on a pickup site.

The Soldiers hastily re-buried the cache and moved out, and when the vehicle arrived, they stopped it and took the most wanted man and two other men into custody.

Some of the Soldiers were still able to see the cache from their vantage point - and were surprised to see a civilian pickup truck stop there and begin hastily loading the weapons into the bed of the truck.

They engaged the vehicle with an M-240 machine gun, and the men tried to flee, but the Troop C Soldiers detained them all – and called an explosive ordnance disposal team to destroy the weapons.

Sawyer a native of Reading, Penn., was jubilant about the operation.

“All of this was possible because of sources we’ve developed, through local-national engagements and working with the residents of the area,” he said. “It’s our work with the people in these areas, our relations with them, paying off.”

The primary target is allegedly responsible for shooting down an AH-64 helicopter in April 2006, the abductions of two Soldiers in June 2006, and complex attacks on patrol bases and terrorist acts against both Coalition Forces and Iraqi civilians.

Additionally, he is believed to be the leader of an al Qaeda network, known to prey on the general public through intimidation and murder against those resisting compliance to the AQI demands and decrees

One of the detainees had been wounded in a previous engagement, and was taken to a coalition hospital for treatment. The other six are being held for further questioning.

Targeted raid in Sadr City kills eight insurgents
2nd BCT, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — Eight insurgents were killed during a targeted raid in eastern Baghdad July 9.

Elements of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, attached to the 82nd Airborne Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, killed eight members of a criminal militia, believed to be responsible for roadside bomb emplacements and indirect fire attacks originating from Sadr City, while conducting an early morning precision raid in the eastern Baghdad security district July 9.

After receiving a tip from residents on the whereabouts of leaders of a criminal militia operating inside Sadr City, Soldiers from the unit cordoned off the area and began searching the objective area. Within minutes of arriving on the scene, the Soldiers were engaged by rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire from numerous locations.

The Soldiers responded, killing the eight insurgents during the ensuing firefight.

“By continuing to show a presence in Sadr City, we ensure members of these criminal militias know that there is no safe haven for those who wish to undermine the government of Iraq, or the people of Iraq who want peace and stability in their neighborhoods,” said Lt. Col. David Oclander, executive officer for the 82nd Airborne Division’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team.

20 terrorists killed, 20 detained during Operation Saber Guardian
Multi-National Division – North PAO

MUQDADIYAH, Iraq – Operation Saber Guardian, a joint operation between 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army soldiers, local concerned citizens, and 6-9 Armored Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, targeted at al-Qaida leadership near the town of Sherween, Iraq, resulted in 20 al-Qaida terrorists killed, 20 detained, and two weapons caches and 12 improvised explosive devices discovered.

“This operation was very important for the people of Sherween because we were able to find a very big hideout for the terrorists,” said Staff Maj. Gen. Abdul Kareem, commander of Iraqi Security Forces in Diyala province. “It was a very big surprise for the terrorists and the people that support them.”

The operation began early Tuesday morning with close air support engaging three river crossings and one bridge with eight 2,000 pound bombs and 14-500 pound bombs. The locations are used by al-Qaida to conduct their attacks and were engaged to prevent their escape.

The people of Sherween played a vital role in this operation as they fought side-by-side the ISF to help them capture and kill known terrorists.

Members of the IA also cleared a local mosque, a suspected terrorist haven, and identified mortar tubes, a mortar cache, small-arms munitions, a sniper rifle and machine guns. The other weapons cache included small-arms munitions and IED-making materials.

“The political impact will strengthen the local population’s confidence in the IA and the local government,” said Maj. John Woodward, 6-9 ARS executive officer. “It will also facilitate Sunni Resistance fighting in the Muqdadiyah area as the people have grown tired of the destruction al-Qaida offers.”

“Such an operation will have a very big impact on the future of Diyala,” said Kareem. “This will serve as lessons for the terrorists and their supporters.

“Now they will start thinking there is no safe haven,” Kareem continued. “The ISF and CF will follow them wherever they go.”

MND-B Soldiers seize cache, detain suspects
4th IBCT, 1st Inf. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers found a weapons cache in the western portion of the Rashid District, and detained numerous suspected insurgents during operations in southwestern Baghdad, July 9-10.

Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment “Black Lions,” 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, seized a weapons cache consisting of 10 60mm mortars, five 120mm mortars, two rocket-propelled grenade launchers, an RPG round and a 60mm mortar tube.

During early morning operations July 10, scouts from Troop A, 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment “Raiders,” captured a man believed linked to a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device that target Coalition Forces a few days prior.

Also that morning, a tip led Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 77th Armored Regiment, and 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment “Vanguards” to launch a raid aimed at interdicting militia activities. During the raid, eight suspects were detained.

“Black Lions” troops captured three suspected terrorists during a cordon and search operation. One of the suspects detained had been wounded earlier in the day and was taken to a medical facility for treatment.

“Warriors” of Company B, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, also detained a man with two government identification cards. One card had his photo in it, the other was blank. Elsewhere, Company A, 2-12 Inf. captured the triggerman of an improvised explosive device.

The suspects detained are being held for further questioning.

IA, CF discover al-Qaeda safe house north of Baqouba
Multi-National Division – North PAO

BAQOUBA, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces discovered an al-Qaida safe house, north of the capital of Diyala province, early this week.

Iraqi Army soldiers and CF Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, found the building while conducting operations north of Baqouba. Inside, the patrol found medical supplies, medical equipment and al-Qaida related propaganda.

Also inside the building was a room with indicators that it had been used as a place of torture, such as blood on the walls and blacked out windows.

One person was detained near the building after locals identified him as being an insurgent.

The Iraqi Soldiers destroyed the medical supplies after finding they were expired.

Since the beginning of Operation Arrowhead Ripper, at least 60 al-Qaeda operatives have been killed, 222 have been detained, 55 weapons caches have been discovered, 125 improvised explosive devices have been destroyed and 24 booby-trapped structures have been destroyed.

IED factory discovered, specialized in ‘curb-shaped’ bombs
Multi-National Division – North PAO

MOSUL, Iraq – Soldiers from 4th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division discovered an improvised explosive device-making facility July 8 during operations in the Al-Sina’a neighborhood.

The accompanying cache consisted of 400 lbs. of Ammonium Nitrate, fragmentation material, cement and molds for shaping, and numerous batteries and other IED components. A completed curb-shaped IED, ready for emplacement, was also found.

The 2nd Iraqi Army Division Bomb Disposal Company responded to the find and reduced all of the material in place.

No Iraqi soldiers or Coalition advisors were injured during the operation.

Rockets, mortars seized in Rashid
4th IBCT, 1st Inf. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — Multi-National Division - Baghdad troops discovered three weapons caches in the western part of the Rashid District July 10.

Company A, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, part of Task Force Black Lion, found a weapons cache while searching an area with a metal detector. The cache included one 107mm rocket, two rockets larger than 107mm, a 130mm rocket, two rocket-propelled grenade launchers, two RPG rounds and a 60mm mortar tube.

An explosive ordnance disposal team detonated the cache at the site. There was no collateral damage.

In the early afternoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 77th Armored Regiment, attached to the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, seized a cache of five 120mm mortars in their original containers.

A few hours later, Company B, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment “Black Lions” found three 107mm rockets with wires attached, and three cases of U.S.-made .50 cal ammunition.

Two terrorists killed, 20 suspects detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed two terrorists and detained 20 suspected terrorists during raids targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq throughout the country Wednesday morning.

During early morning raids in Mosul, Coalition Forces detained five suspected terrorists. The five individuals are allegedly active al-Qaeda cell members and operatives in Mosul. While the ground forces were conducting the operation, one terrorist attempted to attack ground forces with knife. Responding to the threat, Coalition Forces reacted in self-defense and engaged the armed man, killing him.

In western Baghdad, Coalition Forces raided a building and detained one suspected terrorist for his involvement in the deadly Baghdad IED and VBIED network operations. During the early morning raid, one man refused to comply with the translator’s instructions from the ground force. Despite repeated attempts by Coalition Forces to subdue the man, he continued to resist and made threatening motions toward the ground force. Coalition Forces, reacting to the hostile threat, engaged the man, killing him.

Six suspected terrorists were detained in a Baghdad raid for their association with a deadly al-Qaeda in Iraq improvised explosive device and vehicle-borne IED terror cell leader known to conduct kidnappings, assassinations and numerous mortar attacks on Coalition Forces bases.

A precision raid west of the capital city netted a suspected terrorist believed to be key logistics link and conduit in the al-Qaeda in Iraq network.

Coalition Forces raided a series of buildings in Samarra and detained four suspected terrorists there for their association with an al-Qaeda leader known for bringing foreign terrorists into Iraq.

During coordinated raids west of Taji, Coalition Forces detained a direct associate of al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders and two other suspected terrorists for their involvement with al-Qaeda in Iraq.

“Our untiring efforts to remove al-Qaeda from Iraq reach into every corner of this country,” said Maj. Marc Young, an MNF-I spokesperson. “We will continue to target, attack, disrupt and degrade al-Qaeda in Iraq.”

Suspected Secret Cell Terrorist Detained by Coalition Forces

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained one suspected Secret Cell terrorist before dawn on Wednesday in Southwest Baghdad. It is believed that the military aged male is affiliated with the Jaysh al-Mahdi affiliated Special Groups, the terror group active in Baghdad and believed to be responsible for numerous attacks on Iraqi civilians as well as Coalition Forces in Baghdad.

No shots were fired when Coalition Forces conducted a raid to capture or kill terrorists suspected of kidnapping, killing, and conducting attacks against the Iraqi people and Coalition Forces.

“Coalition troops continue to target members of terror groups who attack the Iraqi people and Coalition Forces.” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “The Iraqi people have made it clear that terrorist activity is unwanted and will not be tolerated. Coalition Forces remain committed to detaining members of terror groups in Baghdad.”

Extortion network shut down in Rawah, insurgents detained in Hit
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

FALLUJAH, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces conducted a series of intelligence driven operations in Western Iraq July 9, resulting in the detainment of four individuals allegedly responsible for running an extortion network and two individuals suspected in planning attacks against Coalition Forces.

In the vicinity of Rawah, Iraqi police seized numerous documents and detained four insurgent extortion suspects without incident. The detained individuals were allegedly engaged in extorting protection money from Government of Iraq and Coalition Forces contractors and using the funds to finance al Qaeda in Iraq activities.

During a separate operation in the vicinity of Hit, two suspected insurgents were detained after Iraqi Police received information tying them to recently seized weapons caches. According to independent sources, the individuals were planning an attack against Coalition Forces and allegedly stored the caches, which included suicide belts, propane tank improvised explosive devices and 60mm mortar tubes, on a farm in the area. They are believed to be part of an insurgent group responsible for a series IED and small arms fire attacks against Coalition Forces.

The capture and detainment of these individuals will disrupt insurgent activities in Western Iraq as well as their ability to interfere with the Iraqi government and destabilize the al Anbar area.

Coalition Forces were present as advisers during both operations and no Iraqi Security Forces or Coalition Forces members were injured.

Iraqi Police detain alleged mortar, sniper cell leader in Samarra
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

SAMARRA, Iraq – Iraqi Police Forces conducted an intelligence driven operation in Samarra July 9 and detained an individual allegedly responsible for running a mortar and sniper network in Samarra.

With Coalition Forces along as advisors, Iraqi Forces seized a large amount of ammunition, four sniper rifles, parts for sniper rifles, various mortar rounds, material for making improvised explosive devices, two black masks, and documents.

The capture and detainment of this individual will reduce the amount of sniper systems in Samarra and the number of sniper and mortar attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces.

Coalition Forces were present as advisers and no Iraqi or Coalition Forces members were injured.

Safe haven disrupted, Iraqi Forces detain ten
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

TAJI, Iraq – Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police Forces lead an intelligence driven raid in Muqdadiyah July 10 that led to the detainment of ten targeted suspected terrorists allegedly linked and responsible for providing a safe haven to al-Qaeda in Iraq.

The capture and detainment of these suspected terrorists will continue to disrupt efforts to control the area while providing an opportunity for tribal leadership to operate and secure their region.

Advised by Coalition Forces, Iraqi Forces seized four weapons, material for making improvised explosive devices, a grenade, and various documents. Iraqi Forces also identified and destroyed several anti-tank mines and mortar rounds during a controlled detonation.

No Iraqi or Coalition Forces members were injured during this operation.

ISF, Coalition Forces conduct operations to bring security to Ad Diwaniyah
Multi-National Division – Central South PAO

BAGHDAD - Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces conducted combat operations July 10 and 11 in the city of Ad Diwaniyah with the aim of improving the security situation in the local area and detaining extremists.

During the operations four suspected insurgents were detained, eight were killed and 30 were wounded.

Maj. Gen. Pawel Lamla, Multi-National Division-Center South commander, said, “This operation is aimed to restore order in Ad Diwaniyah. The citizens of Ad Diwaniyah fully support this kind of operation.”

2 captured during Operation Geronimo Strike III
4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

KALSU, Iraq — Paratroopers from Strike Force Geronimo detained two suspected Al Qaeda insurgents during an air assault and raid July 10 northwest of Iskandariyah.

Paratroopers from Company A, 3rd Battalion, 509th Airborne, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division conducted Operation Geronimo Strike III in order to capture members of an Al Qaeda cell wanted in connection with the kidnapping of three American Soldiers and other attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces.

“Tonight, we conducted an air assault into the Jurf As Sukr area looking for two high level targets, some of the guys involved in the missing Soldiers incident,” said Capt. Matthew Gregory, commander of Co. A and a Charlotte, N.C. native. “This is an area that coalition forces had not been to in a little while. This shows them we have the ability to get in places they thought they were safe and get them where they live.”

In addition to capturing the cell members, the operation netted two AK-47 assault rifles, eight fully loaded magazines, two hand grenades and a ski mask.

“Going after the worst of the worst is what Operation Geronimo Strike was designed to do,” said 1st Lt. John Lafferty, a platoon leader with Co. A, from Valdese, N.C. “There are guys who are on the fence, and when they hear we’re capturing their leadership, we have a better chance of stabilizing the government and legitimizing the security forces here.”

The insurgents are being held for further questioning.

The weapons and ammunition was confiscated for use in the investigation.

Two Suspected Secret Cell Terrorists Detained by Coalition Forces

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained two suspected Secret Cell terrorists before dawn on Thursday in Baghdad. It is believed that the terrorists are members of the Special Groups affiliated with Jaysh al-Mahdi, the terror group active in Baghdad and believed to be responsible for numerous attacks on Iraqi civilians as well as Coalition Forces in Baghdad.

Coalition Forces conducted the raid to capture or kill terrorists who allegedly specialize in kidnapping, killing and building and placing improvised explosive devices. Intelligence reports indicate that the suspected terrorists targeted during the raid are associated with key leaders in the secret cell terrorist network and have ties to Iranian terrorists groups. Coalition Forces also confiscated AK-47s and pistols from the suspected terrorists.

During the operation, terrorists fired upon Coalition Forces with a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) and hit a house causing undetermined damage. Coalition Forces engaged the RPG team, who fled the area. There were no known casualties from the RPG attack.

“Coalition troops will continue to target the terrorists who create fear and chaos in Iraq by killing innocent Iraqis and targeting Coalition Forces,” said Maj. Marc Young, an MNF-I spokesperson. “We remain committed to stopping the Iranian influence which serves to terrorize and destabilize Iraq.”

19 suspected al-Qaeda detained in Coalition raids

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 19 suspected terrorists during raids targeting al-Qaeda operations cells in central and northern Iraq Wednesday and Thursday.

Thursday in Mosul, Coalition Forces captured an individual believed to be the most active terrorist cell leader in Mosul. The suspected terrorist is allegedly involved in attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces, and facilitating the movement of foreign terrorists for participation in terrorist activities. During the raid, the ground forces also detained five suspected associates of the targeted individual.

Another raid in Mosul Thursday netted one suspected terrorist allegedly tied to al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders in the area.

Coalition Forces east of Balad captured a suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq financier for the northern part of the country who has ties to senior leaders within the al-Qaeda organization. During the Thursday raid, Coalition Forces detained a total of 11 suspected terrorists.

Coalition Forces conducted a precision raid in Baghdad Wednesday and captured an al-Qaeda in Iraq operative who allegedly is an electrical engineer and bomb-making expert. Intelligence reports indicate he is connected to al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders and had been considered for a terrorist leadership position abroad.

“We are not just whittling away at the al-Qaeda organization, but cracking their command network,” said Maj. Marc Young, an MNF-I spokesperson. “We will continue to target terrorists and their organizations so the Iraqi people can move forward and build their own country.”

Paratroopers capture cell leader
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

KALSU, Iraq — Task Force Geronimo Paratroopers captured a cell leader responsible for conducting rocket and improvised explosive device attacks in Iskandariyah, July 9, near Mussayyib.

Paratroopers from 1st Battalion, 501st Airborne, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, conducted a raid on the man’s house and arrested him without incident. The man was responsible for conducting attacks against the residents and security forces of Iskandariyah.

The cell leader is being held for further questioning.

Insurgent leader captured during Operation Grenada
4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

KALSU, Iraq — The ringleader of a cell responsible for conducting rocket and improvised explosive device attacks on the people and security forces of North Babil was captured by Task Force Steel near Tunis, July 7.

Paratroopers of 3rd Battalion, 509th Airborne, and Soldiers of 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment of the 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division conducted an assault named Operation Grenada while simultaneously surrounding the target’s house with tanks and Bradley fighting vehicles.

Task Force Steel also captured two other cell members along with a rangefinder used to aim and target rocket attacks, IED materials, two AK-47 assault rifles with 600 rounds of ammunition, and militia propaganda.

In addition to the cell leader, cell members, weapons and materials, the Task Force also captured a truck that tested positive for exposure to explosive materials.

The suspects were detained for further questioning.

The weapons, propaganda and other materials were confiscated for use in the investigation.

IA, 2-7 Cavalry find IED factory, detain 18 during raid
Multi-National Division – North PAO

MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers and their Coalition counterparts found an improvised explosive device factory during a raid in Mosul’s Al Sina’a neighborhood July 11.

Working from local tips, soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, in coordination with Coalition forces from the 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment moved into the neighborhood and came under small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire from insurgent gunmen. The CF and IA returned fire, killing three of the insurgents while the remaining attackers fled to a nearby building.

The Iraqi soldiers entered the building and discovered several unique elements used to create improvised explosive devices. These included an acetylene tank, fertilizer, sugar, and an industrial-grade sifter.

One of the detainees tested positive for TNT and a total of 18 suspects were detained.

The factory and bomb-making components were reduced on site.

“We will continue to put factories used to build bombs that injure and kill Iraqi civilians, Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition troops, out of business,” said Maj. Mark Reeves, operations officer, 2-7 Cavalry

No Iraqi or Coalition forces were injured during the operation.

Firefight in New Baghdad; US, Iraqi forces kill 9 insurgents, detain 13
2nd IBCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq — Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers, with their Iraqi Security Force counterparts, killed nine insurgents and detained 13 more after coming under fire July 12 in the New Baghdad District of eastern Baghdad.

Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, and the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, both operating in eastern Baghdad under the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, along with their Iraqi counterparts from the 1st Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st Division National Police, were conducting a coordinated raid as part of a planned operation when they were attacked by small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades. Coalition Forces returned fire and called in attack aviation reinforcement.

Nine insurgents were killed in the ensuing firefight. One insurgent was wounded and two civilians were killed during the firefight.

The two civilians were reported as employees for the Reuters news service.

“There is no question that Coalition Forces were clearly engaged in combat operations against a hostile force,” said Lt. Col Scott Bleichwehl, spokesperson and public affairs officer for MND-B.

The command’s thoughts are with the families of the civilians who were killed during the combat action.

The incident is under investigation.

MND-B troops detain 31 at suspected Al Qaeda meeting in Rashid District
4th IBCT, 1st Inf. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — Multi-National Division - Baghdad troops detained 31 suspected insurgents at a possible Al Qaeda meeting in the Rashid District, July 11.

Soldiers from Company A, 1sy Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, detained the suspects during an evening raid aimed at disrupting a suspected terrorist meeting in the district.

The suspects were detained for further questioning.

Coalition Forces kill two terrorists, capture 19 suspects

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed two terrorists and detained 19 suspected terrorists during operations in central and western Iraq Friday targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders and their associates.

Coalition Forces targeted the leaders of al-Qaeda in Iraq during coordinated raids on several buildings in Tarmiyah. As Coalition Forces entered one of the buildings, two men charged the ground forces and attempted to assault them. Coalition Forces, reacting in self-defense, engaged the two men, killing them. Another man was injured by a ricochet bullet from the engagement and was taken to a military medical facility.

During the raids, Coalition Forces detained six suspected terrorists, including a targeted individual who is an alleged weapons facilitator in Anbar province and closely tied to al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders.

A separate raid in Tarmiyah netted two more suspected terrorists tied to the religious emir of al-Qaeda in Iraq.

West of Taji, Coalition Forces conducted operations on two buildings in search of a close associate of the al-Qaeda in Iraq emir of Karmah. The ground forces captured eight suspected terrorists, including the targeted individual, who is allegedly involved in conducting terrorist attacks, coordinating suicide operations and importing weapons from abroad.

Coalition Forces raided two buildings in southwestern Baghdad and detained three suspected terrorists allegedly tied to the al-Qaeda in Iraq emir of Baghdad.

“We’re relentlessly targeting the senior leaders of al-Qaeda in Iraq to cripple their network,” said Maj. Marc Young, an MNF-I spokesperson. “The people of Iraq deserve to live without fear of terrorists’ murderous attacks.”

Dragons’ Operation ‘Hammers’ enemy
4th IBCT, 1st Inf. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — Multi-National Division - Baghdad troops detained more than 100 suspected insurgents and seized more than 200 weapons caches during Operation Dragon Hammer in the Rashid District of the Iraqi capital July 1 -11.

The operation, launched by the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team “Dragons,” 1st Infantry Division, was aimed at rooting out suspected terrorists; interdicting their supplies; and helping the elected Iraqi government secure the southern Baghdad district.

Between July 1-11, 101 suspects were detained, including suspected leaders of Al Qaeda in Iraq and rogue elements of Jayesh Al Mahdi. One suspect, believed to be an Al Qaeda cell leader, was killed July 9.

During this time, Dragon Brigade Soldiers located 237 weapons caches which included two intact explosively formed penetrator devices, one complete 120mm mortar system, 37 mortar rounds and various other IED-making materials; and numerous small arms and small arms ammunition

On July 11, alone, 11 suspected Al Qaeda members were detained in the Massafee area during a targeted raid. Soldiers from Company B, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, attached to the 4th IBCT, launched the raid to capture suspected terrorists in order to disrupt Al Qaeda activities in the area.

The suspects were detained for further questioning.

MND-B aircrews destroy homemade explosive factory, cache
By Sgt. 1st Class Rick Emert
1st ACB, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

CAMP TAJI, Iraq — Multi-National Division-Baghdad attack helicopter crews destroyed a homemade explosive factory and cache July 12 northwest of Baghdad.

An AH-64D Apache team from 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, first observed two buildings that appeared to be part of an HME factory during a reconnaissance mission July 5.

An air assault was planned to establish whether the buildings were used to manufacture the explosive, frequently used by terrorists in roadside and car bombs.

The air assault, Operation Eagles, launched at approximately 2 a.m. July 12, with two UH-60 Black Hawks from 3rd “Spearhead” Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, transporting Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 37th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cav. Div. to the potential HME site.

The 1-37th FA Soldiers were inserted near the site and confirmed that the buildings were used to manufacture explosives. The Soldiers also found an anti-aircraft weapon in the buildings and two trailers and eight vehicles at the site.

After getting clearance from the ground forces, the Apache helicopter crews fired on the buildings, destroying them and the anti-aircraft weapon system. The Apaches also destroyed the two trailers and fired on the vehicles.

U.S. Special Forces apprehend high-level Al-Qaeda cell leader
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – U.S. Special Forces and Iraqi Security Forces detained an alleged high-level Al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist cell leader July 13 at Baghdad International Airport.

The alleged cell leader turned himself in to U.S. Special Forces and Iraqi Security Forces without a struggle and is currently in U.S. custody for questioning.

The alleged cell leader has reportedly targeted Coalition Forces, distributed mortars, organized and ordered vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks. He is believed to operate out of the Karh district of Baghdad, along with Mahmudiyah and the Arab Jabour districts.

No Iraqi Security or Coalition Forces members were injured during the operations.

Iraqi Forces detain sniper cell leader in Bayji
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAYJI, Iraq – Elements of the 4th Iraqi Army Brigade detained the leader of a terrorist sniper cell in Bayji during an intelligence driven operation in Bayji July 12. The targeted individual is allegedly responsible for leading attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces, including attacks against the joint security site in downtown Bayji.

Two other individuals were also detained during the operation. One other member of this cell had been previously captured last month. Iraqi Forces, with U.S. Special Operations Forces as advisors, also confiscated an AK-47 rifle, ammunition and computer equipment.

No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured during either operation.

Iraqi citizen leads Soldiers to caches in known terrorist safe haven
2nd BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. (LI) PAO
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

QARGHULI VILLAGE, Iraq — An Iraqi citizen who has been working with Coalition Forces during the past week led them to two caches in Qarghuli Village, Iraq, a known terrorist safe haven.

The local resident accompanied Soldiers of the 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment “Polar Bears,” 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) out of Fort Drum, N.Y., on a dismounted patrol in the village July 12 and led them to two caches.

The caches consisted of a rack system, a video camera, a 61mm fuze, a spool of command wire used to make improvised explosive devices, 44 Dragonov sniper rounds and a 155mm round.

During the past few days the Iraqi residents have led the Polar Bears to more than 14 caches in the village.

“The people of Qarghuli Village coming forward to help the Iraqi and Coalition Forces is a positive sign that they are willing to take more responsibility in their own security,” said Maj. Kenny Mintz, the 2nd BCT operations officer and native of San Diego. “They are taking steps that they have never taken before.”

The contents of the cache were destroyed during a controlled detonation conducted by members of the explosive ordnance team.

13th MEU finds 50,000 pounds of ammonium nitrate
Multi National Force – West

CAMP AL TAQADDUM, Iraq – Marines from Company I, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, discovered 500, one hundred-pound bags of ammonium nitrate July 11.

Marines stopped two 18-wheel tractor trailers while conducting a vehicle check point north of Karmah. The ammonium nitrate, a common ingredient in improvised explosive devices, was found during a search of the vehicles.

Marines are currently conducting operations north of Fallujah and Karmah to search for weapons caches and to deny enemy activities throughout the area.

Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces kill insurgent cell commander in Baghdad
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces killed a rogue Jaysh Al-Mahdi Special Group cell commander July 11 during an intelligence driven operation in eastern Baghdad.

Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces entered the residence to detain Said Jaffer for questioning. When the insurgent commander brandished a pistol, the team verbally instructed him in Arabic to drop his weapon. However, Jaffer refused to comply and the team engaged the insurgent with well-aimed and proportional fire.

The high-level rogue JAM leader has a history of terrorizing the New Baghdad area by extorting money, kidnapping and carrying out extra-judicial killings on innocent citizens, who resisted his criminal influence in their neighborhoods.

As a commander of more than 120 fighters, his cell is responsible for engaging military and police forces with small arms fire and emplacing explosively formed projectiles along travel routes. The lethal roadside device has been the cause of many Iraqi and Coalition deaths.

Intelligence shows a clear link to his group partnering with outside Persian extremists, whose goal is to destroy the legitimate government of Iraq and create instability in the region.

Coalition Forces served as advisors during the operations. No Iraqi or Coalition Forces members were injured during the operation.

Air strike kills five insurgents; Raid nets four al-Qaeda insurgents
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – A Coalition Forces air strike killed five insurgents who were observed planting an improvised explosive device along a heavily traveled route in Diwaniyah, July 12.

During routine aerial reconnaissance in the Diwaniyah area, Coalition Forces spotted the five individuals emplacing an IED on a route used regularly by Iraqi Security Forces as well as civilian drivers. With the area cleared of civilians, the Coalition Forces conducted the aerial strike with well aimed and proportional force, killing the targeted subjects.

Iraqi Security Forces confirmed that the five insurgents died as a result of the blast.

In a separate operation, Iraqi Security Forces conducted an early morning raid in Tal Afar detaining three al-Qaeda cell leaders, July 12.

With Coalition Forces present as advisers, Iraqi Security Forces raided a residence in the Sh’War village of northwest Iraq and detained their primary suspects without incident. One other suspicious individual present during the raid was also detained.

The primary targets of this operation are alleged to be responsible for establishing a safe haven for other al-Qaeda members in Tal Afar as well as conducting attacks against Iraqi Security Forces, Coalition Forces and local Iraqi people.

No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured during this raid.

Arrowhead Ripper update: Baqouba residents return to work

Multi-National Division – North PAO

BAQOUBA, Iraq – Baqouba residents are returning to work and coalition and Iraqi ground forces continue to make significant seizures twenty-four days into Operation Arrowhead Ripper.

More than 100 workers and 50 security guards returned to work July 11 at Diyala Electrical Industry because of increased security. DEI repairs and manufactures a wide variety of products essential for power distribution and is Baqouba’s largest company, capable of employing nearly 3,000 people. The company has already repaired a generator for the local government to install and use.

The Iraqi army is providing combat power throughout Baqouba as Arrowhead Ripper continues. More than 700 soldiers, mostly from 1st Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division are working alongside units from the 1-12th Combined Arms Battalion and 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment.

During the last 48 hours, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment seized a large weapons cache containing more than 20 60mm mortars, four rocket propelled grenades and launcher materials. The 1-12 CAB units have located and destroyed two al-Qaeda in Iraq field hospitals, a torture room, a headquarters facility, and multiple IED’s.

“We have only completed the first phase of the liberation of the people of Baqouba from the grip of al-Qaeda,” said Col. Steve Townsend, commander of the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. “There is still much work to do here, but Baqouba is no longer al-Qaeda’s capital in Iraq, and the citizens in much of the city are gradually returning to a safer and more normal way of life.”

Since the beginning of Operation Arrowhead Ripper, 60 al-Qaida operatives have been confirmed killed and 224 have been detained. Coalition and Iraqi forces have also eliminated 133 improvised explosive devices and destroyed 24 booby-trapped structures.

Six terrorists killed after endangering women and children, engaging Coalition Forces

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces called in an air strike against a group of armed terrorists during a raid in Diyala province Saturday, killing at least six of the armed men.

Coalition Forces conducted an operation south of Baqubah targeting a weapons dealer linked to the foreign terrorist network in Samarra. When they reached the target location, they called out to the occupants of the building and were immediately engaged with small arms fire that escalated to include heavy machine gun fire.

During the engagement, armed terrorists gathered on the roof of one building and brought several women and children to their fighting positions as human shields. Coalition Forces took extensive precautions to preserve the safety of the women and children. When the terrorists finally released the civilians, Coalition Forces escorted them to a safe area away from the fighting.

Ground forces continued to take heavy fire. Reacting appropriately in self-defense against the enemy force, Coalition Forces called in close air support to eliminate the hostile threat. The air strike is believed to have killed at least six armed men at the target location, but Coalition Forces continued to take enemy fire as they left the area.

Additional assessment of the area is ongoing.

“Terrorists continue to show complete disrespect for human life,” said Maj. Marc Young, an MNF-I spokesperson. “We will continue to attack the networks that support values so opposed to those of the Iraqi people.”

Al-Qaeda cell leader, 17 suspected bombers captured

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 18 suspected terrorists during operations in central and northern Iraq Saturday targeting bombing networks and terrorist cell leaders.

One suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leader surrendered to Coalition Forces during a raid in Mosul. The individual is the alleged security emir of Mosul, operating terrorist cells in the area and maintaining connections to other high-level al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders.

Coalition Forces captured a suspected vehicle-borne improvised explosive device cell leader southeast of Baghdad. During the raid, the ground forces also detained eight suspected terrorists tied to the bombing cell.

During a raid southwest of the capital city, Coalition Forces captured an alleged IED operative and two individuals suspected of emplacing IEDs for him.

A Coalition Forces raid northwest of Baghdad netted five suspected terrorists who are allegedly tied to a chlorine VBIED facilitator in Anbar province.

“Combating the bombing networks that conduct vicious attacks against the citizens of Iraq is a high priority for us,” said Maj. Marc Young, an MNF-I spokesperson. “Taking these leaders and operatives off the street brings us a step closer to a peaceful Iraq.”

Paratroopers capture IED cell leader
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

KALSU, Iraq — The ring leader of a cell responsible for conducting improvised explosive device attacks on the people and security forces of North Babil was captured by paratroopers south of Mahmudiyah, July 11.

The Paratroopers of Company C, 3rd Battalion, 509th Airborne, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division conducted a raid named Operation Leyte Gulf and captured the cell leader and four of his lieutenants.

“Capturing high value targets does a couple of things for us. It limits the threat to Coalition Forces,” said 2nd Lt. Jason Franklin, a native of Catoosa, Okla., and platoon leader with Company C. “It’s also a great morale booster for the guys. … We’re fighting a war where we fight a faceless enemy, so it’s good when you have a recognizable target and take him down.”

The paratroopers also confiscated an AK47 automatic rifle with five magazines of ammunition, four hunting knives, and a set of binoculars.

“Operations like this definitely deter the insurgency. It makes them change up their tactics and techniques on where they go, how they operate, and who is in charge,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jerry Rogers, a platoon sergeant with Company C from Fort Worth, Texas.

The cell members were detained for further questioning.

The weapons and other materials were confiscated for use in the investigation.

Tags:Iraq
MNF Iraq
Al Qaeda
War on Terror
Iraqi Army
101st Fighting Keyboardists

.