Al-Qaeda Leaders Targeted; 16 Detained

MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
COMBINED PRESS INFORMATION CENTER
Release A070607b

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 16 suspected terrorists during operations targeting the al-Qaeda senior leadership network Thursday in central Iraq.

In three coordinated raids southeast of Fallujah, Coalition Forces detained 11 suspected terrorists tied to the al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leader network. Two of the targeted individuals are believed to be al-Qaeda in Iraq members responsible for recruitment and facilitation of terrorist cells in the area.

Coalition Forces captured a suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist leader during a raid on two buildings in Hit. The individual allegedly replaced another senior leader who recently fled the area. Coalition Forces detained three more suspected terrorists at the scene for their connection to al-Qaeda senior leadership.

In continuing operations to disrupt the vehicle-borne improvised explosive device network, Coalition Forces detained one suspected terrorist in Baghdad.

“Our methodical, sustained operations are making it more difficult for al-Qaeda to operate, and we’ll continue to apply pressure to eliminate their attacks against Iraqis and those who are working to secure the country’s future,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.