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

Press Release A080207c
February 7, 2008

Coalition disrupts al-Qaeda in Iraq networks; one terrorist killed, 12 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 12 suspects Wednesday and today during operations to disrupt al-Qaeda networks operating in northern Iraq.

During two coordinated operations in Mosul Wednesday and today, Coalition forces targeted associates of a senior al-Qaeda in Iraq foreign terrorist facilitator. The terrorist leader reportedly leads a group of foreign terrorists and suicide bombers who are responsible for the attack that resulted in the death of five Coalition soldiers Jan. 28 (see MNC-I press release 20080128-01, "Coalition Soldiers killed in IED attack," dated Jan. 28, 2008). 

Reports led Coalition forces to an area where one of the suspects was believed to be operating and one terrorist was killed. Coalition forces also destroyed a vehicle in the target area to prevent its further use for terrorist operations. In the eastern portion of the city, Coalition forces detained six suspected terrorists for their alleged association with the terrorist leader.

In Bayji today, Coalition forces captured an individual who is allegedly an al-Qaeda in Iraq cell leader involved in the city's terrorist network. The suspect reportedly leads and coordinates attacks on Coalition forces operating in the region. He is also believed to be a close associate of the al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leader for the network, as well as a member of an anti-Coalition forces group active in the region. A group of Concerned Local Citizens led the ground force to the location where the individual was operating and he was subsequently detained along with one additional suspect.

During an operation in Tikrit this morning, Coalition forces captured an alleged member of an al-Qaeda in Iraq media and propaganda cell with suspected ties to al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leadership. Coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists in addition to the wanted suspect.

"Al-Qaeda is trying to re-establish itself in northern Iraq, but they will find no safe haven there," said Lt. Michael Street, MNF-I spokesman. "Iraqi and Coalition forces will continue to find and dismantle their terrorist networks."

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