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

Sept. 4, 2007
Release A070904b

Coalition forces kill one, detain two in search for smugglers of Iranian weapons

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces detained two suspected weapons smugglers in a pre-dawn raid Tuesday in the village of Qazaniyah, near the Iraqi-Iranian border northeast of Baquba.

Coalition forces conducted a raid to capture or kill weapons facilitators suspected of smuggling weapons from Iran into Iraq.  The detained individuals are suspected of having regular and recent contact with the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps – Quds Force.  The suspects are believed to have smuggled and distributed Iranian weapons, including deadly explosively formed penetrators (EFPs).  Intelligence reports indicate the weapons facilitators have traveled to and from Iran recently.  Coalition forces believe the capture of these two individuals will lead to more intelligence on weapons smuggling networks and possibly more arrests.

While conducting the raid, Coalition forces identified an armed gunman maneuvering aggressively against Coalition forces.  In accordance with the rules of engagement, Coalition forces fired in self defense on the armed gunman, killing him.

A search of multiple buildings revealed AK-47s, multiple magazines of ammunition, tactical military gear, questionable documents, photographs and currency, all confiscated for further analysis.

“Coalition troops continue to kill and capture terrorists who bring Iranian weapons into Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesman. “Coalition forces demonstrate their resolve by continuing to pursue these nefarious networks that provide EFPs to those who intend to kill Iraqi citizens and subvert the prospects of a stable and secure Iraq.”

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