One Terrorist Killed, 22 Detained

Coalition Forces killed one terrorist and detained 22 suspected terrorists during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders in central and northern Iraq Thursday and Friday:

BAGHDAD, Iraq – In northern Taji Thursday, Coalition Forces captured an individual believed to be the al-Qaeda in Iraq military leader in southern Tarmiyah who is responsible for coordinating attacks and tied to al-Qaeda’s illegal justice system.

Coalition Forces raided a building Thursday in Mosul looking for an individual who is believed to be a close associate of al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leader. They detained one suspected terrorist during the operation.

Coalition Forces conducted multiple raids across the country Friday. In Mosul, Coalition Forces conducted two coordinated raids where they captured a suspected vehicle-borne improvised explosive device maker also believed to be involved in kidnappings. Intelligence reports indicate he is affiliated with al-Qaeda in Iraq and has contact with senior terrorist leaders. Ground forces detained three other suspected terrorists on the scene. As the assault force was leaving the area, an armed man near the target buildings engaged the force with small arms fire. In defense of the ground force, a Coalition Forces sniper returned fire, killing the armed man.

In southern Baghdad, Coalition Forces captured an individual with alleged close ties to al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders. Ground forces detained a total of three suspected terrorists during the operation.

Coalition Forces captured a suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq emir west of Kirkuk. Intelligence reports indicate that in addition to leading terrorist activities in the area, the individual has connections to al-Qaeda senior leaders in al Tamim province.

A raid west of Muqdadiyah targeted a suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq intelligence operative who is also believed to be associated with the illegal terrorist justice system. Coalition Forces detained six suspected terrorists on site.

“These operations continue to give us information that helps us target terrorists in
future operations, like pulling on the links of chain,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “We will continue to put pressure on al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders and capture or kill them.”

Great job boys!