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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20071030-09
October 30, 2007

Iraqi Security Forces rescue sheik hostages
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – Soldiers with the 9th Iraqi Army Division, led by Maj. Gen. Riyahd, conducted a mission to rescue abducted sheiks Oct. 29.

The mission was conducted to free sheiks from Diyala that were kidnapped in the Shaab area of northern Baghdad the day prior.  The mission was supported by U.S. military advisors to the Iraqi Army and Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division and the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.

The mission resulted in the rescue of seven sheiks, the capture of four abductors and the killing of at least three extremists at the location where the sheiks were being held.  The body of an eighth sheik was recovered at the scene. 

The rescued sheiks were taken to a nearby Iraqi Army facility where they received medical attention.  Several stated they had been beaten with a tire iron.  The sheiks also stated that they have no doubt that their abductors were Shi’a extremists. 

“The execution of this mission shows how far Iraqi Security Forces have come,” said Brig. Gen. John F. Campbell, deputy commanding general for maneuver for Multi National Division – Baghdad.  “The 9th Iraqi Army, led by General Riyadh, reacted very quickly to intelligence they received; they planned and then organized their forces, and executed a tough and precise mission with support from the Coalition.  They are well on their way to being the pre-eminent security force for the people of Iraq.”

Iraqi and Coalition Forces continue to hunt all those responsible for the abductions.

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