MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com
703.343.8790

Aug. 16, 2007
Release A070816a

Six terrorists killed, 5 suspects detained in coordinated operations

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed six terrorists and detained 26 suspected terrorists linked to al-Qaeda in Iraq during coordinated operations east of Balad the week of Aug. 9-14.

Coalition Forces conducted the two operations to disrupt terrorist operations in the area.  During a 24-hour operation Aug. 10, they found a small cache of machine gun rounds and components used to make improvised explosive devices.  The ground forces detained 21 suspected terrorists for their alleged ties to al-Qaeda in Iraq. 

Several women on the scene wept while the men were detained.  They told ground forces they were crying because they were happy that their sheikh, who had been run out by terrorists, could return to the community.

Coalition Forces followed up the 24-hour operation with a precision raid Aug. 14.  As they began the operation, surveillance teams observed several men maneuvering into a previously secured area near the assault force.  Coalition Forces, responding to the organized enemy force, requested close air support to engage the men.  After the air strike, ground forces assessed six terrorists were killed in the engagement, and detained five suspected terrorists on the scene.

“Terrorists cannot conceal themselves in small villages, disrupting the lives of Iraqi citizens," said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.  “There are no safe havens for terrorists here -- we will continue to seek them out wherever they hide.”

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