MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ

PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com
703.343.8790
Press Release 07DEC07a
December 7, 2007

 BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured a suspected Special Groups criminal element leader, killed two armed men in self-defense, wounded two others and detained five suspects during operations early Thursday in the Al Hayy area, southeast of Baghdad.
 The targeted individual reportedly received special weapons training in order to train Special Group criminal element members for insurgent operations. His skills consist of improvised explosive device operation, sniper fire, rocket propelled grenades, operational security, mortars and insurgency combat tactics. He is also believed to be an associate of several other senior-level criminal element leaders who were involved in attacks on Coalition forces. 
 During the operation, ground forces came under assault by small-arms fire. Assault forces engaged the armed men in self-defense, killing two and wounding two others. Additionally, the targeted individual was captured and four other suspects were detained.
 “Coalition forces will continue to apply pressure to splinter groups that are not honoring al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr’s pledge to cease attacks,” said Capt. Vic Beck, MNF-I spokesman. “Each capture of one of these criminals brings us one step closer to a secure future for Iraq.”
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