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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20070718-16
July 18, 2007

Update: Detainee captured June 28 identified
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – A detainee held in Coalition custody since June 28 and alleged to be a key leader of a rogue Jaysh al-Mahdi militia element, known as a Special Group, is identified as Sheikh (Ahmed) Mohammad Hassan Sbahi Al Khafaji. Al Khafaji was detained during an operation in Nasiriyah.
 
During the operation, Iraqi Special Operations Forces, with Coalition Forces present as advisors, detained Al Khafaji without incident and also detained five other suspicious individuals during the operation.
 
Al Khafaji is allegedly responsible for direct attacks on Coalition Forces, rocket attacks on Coalition bases and has been implicated in the kidnappings and murders of Iraqi citizens.  It is also believed he provides financial support to weapons trafficking networks which supply Iranian affiliated Special Groups in the Baghdad area. The Special Groups received training, arms and funding from Iran’s Quds Force.
 
No ISOF or Coalition Forces soldiers were injured in the operation. A photograph of the detainee is also attached.

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