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

June 16, 2007
Release A070616b

One Secret Cell terrorist killed, 10 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraqi and Coalition Forces killed one terrorist, wounded one suspected terrorist and detained 10 suspected terrorists, including one key facilitator and one cell leader, during operations targeting secret cell network operations in Baghdad.

The individuals detained during the raid are believed to be members of the 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.

During coordinated operations in Sadr City and eastern Baghdad, Iraqi and Coalition Forces detained eight suspected terrorists in eastern Baghdad and two suspected terrorists in Sadr City.  During the pre-dawn raids in Sadr City, ground forces came under small arms fire.  Using appropriate self defense measures, Coalition Forces returned fire, killing at least one terrorist and wounding one armed suspected terrorist.

Intelligence reports indicate that the cell leader detained during the morning’s operation in Sadr City is associated with a kidnapping cell and is believed to be directly involved in the November Ministry of Health kidnappings.  Additionally, intelligence reports indicate that the targeted individual’s cell specializes in the emplacement of improvised explosive devises and EFPs.

Intelligence reports also indicate that the key facilitator detained in eastern Baghdad has direct contact with high level key leaders in the secret cell terrorist networks.  He is also believed to be responsible for the facilitation of Iran lethal aid as well as directing attacks on Coalition Forces.

“This morning’s operations bring the terrorist and extremist networks another step closer to defeat, and bring the people of Iraq another step closer to establishing a safer and more secure environment,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. 

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