Terror Leader and Terrorist Facilitator Captured

Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained a suspected terrorist leader, a suspected terrorist facilitator, and three other suspects in raids Jan. 20 and Jan. 22 in Balad and Hawija:

BALAD, Iraq – The suspected leader of an al Qaeda in Iraq affiliated terror cell operating in Albu Krawan and Shihab Village was detained during a raid in Balad during a Jan. 22 raid.

The suspected terrorist and his cell are believed to be responsible for mortar and improvised explosive device attacks against Coalition Forces as well as the kidnapping of innocent Iraqi civilians.

In addition, he is believed to have provided safe houses, weapons and financing for terrorist operations in the region.

A suspected terrorist facilitator and three others suspects were detained during a raid in the vicinity of Hawija, in the Kirkuk province, Jan. 20. According to intelligence reports, the four suspects are members of an Al Qaeda in Iraq cell that facilitates terrorist attacks.

The suspects are believed to provide medical care, financing and safe havens for terrorists who carry out attacks against Iraqi and Coalition Forces.

No Iraqi or U.S. Forces were injured during these operations.