Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20070721-05
July 21, 2007

Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces detain former official allegedly linked to Al Qaeda
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Soldiers from the 5th Division of the Iraqi Army, with U.S. Special Operations Forces as advisors, detained a former mayor and current city council member in As-Sadiyah, July 20.

Iraqi and Coalition Forces raided a residence in as-Sadiyah near Diyala Province and detained their primary target without incident.

Intelligence reports indicate the detainee is linked to Al Qaeda in Iraq and the New Baath Party and is linked to kidnappings, murders and extortion in Diyala Province in order to exert pressure and influence on local sheiks.

The suspect was reportedly involved in a vehicle borne improvised explosive device attack in the Zargoush village in As Sadiyah that killed 19 civilians. Reports indicate that he openly discredits the Government of Iraq and its efforts to bring stability in the region.

No Iraqi or Coalition Forces were injured in the operation.

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