Released Detainees Pledge to Uphold Rule of Law in Baqouba

In what major Brooks of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division sites as proof that the rule of law in the province is developing, Iraqi Police and Coalition Forces released 67 detainees whom pledge to uphold Rule of Law in Baqouba:

BAQOUBA, Iraq – Iraqi police and Coalition Forces released a total of 67 detainees Sept. 12, as a demonstration of due process and in the spirit of Ramadan.

“This release shows the development of the rule of law in the province as well as evidenced-based police work. This goes hand-in-hand with improvements in the Diyala provincial government,” said Maj. Paul Brooks, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.

CF released 37 detainees to the authority of the Iraqi Provincial Police, after a comprehensive review of case evidence. The IPs then released the 37, in addition to 30 of their own detainees, from the Major Crimes Unit jail.

Each individual freed said a prayer and took a pledge to not break the law nor bear arms against the Iraqi government or CF. They also agreed to assist both organizations whenever called upon.

Sheiks from several neighborhoods in Baqouba and surrounding villages were present as representatives of the community for the release ceremony. The sheiks also serve as sponsors for the individuals released to their respective tribes.

Emphasizing new beginnings, Lt. Col. Quinton Arnold, deputy commanding officer of 3rd BCT, 1st Cav. Div., addressed the men being released.

“In our efforts to rid al-Qaeda from the city, these men were detained for suspected criminal activity. There is not sufficient evidence to continue to hold them,” he said. “Their families will now have the men of their household back.”

Speaking to the detainees, Arnold said, “When you go, know that Baqouba is a much different city than it was three months ago. May Allah bring peace and blessings upon you. I wish you all prosperity in the future.”

I'm not absolutely sold on this idea, as we've seen in the past many released combatants back on the battlefield fighting against a free and democratic Iraq. Hopefully it will be different this time as Baqouba is a much different place now than it was when these men were captured.

I'm sure the Baqouba Guardians will be watching them along with Iraqi Police and Coalition Forces.