MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com
703.343.8790
    
Press Release A071125c
November 25, 2007

Coalition forces capture criminal element leader, two others detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured a suspected Special Groups leader and detained two other suspected criminals during operations late Friday in Ar Rashidiyah, north of Baghdad, near the Tigris River.
 
The targeted individual reportedly directed his splinter group cell to attack Coalition forces and assassinate Iraqis who work with Coalition forces.  Intelligence also showed the primary focus of the wanted individual’s criminal element was explosively formed penetrator emplacement, murder and kidnapping. 

Intelligence led ground forces to the target area where they conducted raids on multiple buildings that resulted in the capture of the suspected criminal and the detainment of two additional suspects. All suspected criminals were detained without incident.

During the operations, ground forces also discovered multiple assault rifle ammunition magazines.

“While violence is trending in the right direction, a tough fight remains ahead,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “Muqtada al-Sadr’s commitment to a ceasefire has been a contributing factor in the decreased violence in Iraq, but the Special Groups leader and associates detained today were not honoring Sadr’s pledge. We will continue targeting criminals who threaten the lives of Iraqi civilians, and Iraqi and Coalition forces.”

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