MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
COMBINED PRESS INFORMATION CENTER
BAGHDAD, Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com
703.270.0320 / 0299

May 26, 2007
Release A070526a

SECRET CELL KEY LEADER DETAINED, AIR STRIKE IN SADR CITY
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraqi and Coalition Forces detained one suspected terrorist cell leader and killed at least five terrorists Saturday morning during raids in Sadr City.

The individual detained during the raid is believed to be the suspected leader in a secret cell terrorist network known for facilitating the transport of weapons and explosively formed penetrators, or EFPs, from Iran to Iraq, as well as bringing militants from Iraq to Iran for terrorist training.

After successfully detaining the suspected secret cell leader during the morning’s operation, nine vehicles moved into the target area and were positioning themselves to block and ambush Iraqi and Coalition Forces as they began to depart the area. 

Iraqi and Coalition Forces responded to a perceived threat and called in close air support. 

All nine vehicles were engaged during the air strike, killing at least five terrorists.

Intelligence reports indicate the individual detained is suspected of having direct ties to a senior leader of a significant EFP network as well as acting as a proxy for an Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps officer.

“We will continue to seek out and tirelessly pursue these terrorists who seek to undermine the Iraqi government and place innocents Iraqis in harms way,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.
 

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