MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com
703.343.8790
    
Press Release A080211b
February 11, 2008

Coalition targets al-Qaeda in Iraq networks in Mosul; one killed; 14 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 14 suspects yesterday and today during operations to disrupt al-Qaeda networks operating in northern Iraq.

North of Mosul yesterday, Coalition forces conducted an operation targeting an associate of a senior foreign terrorist facilitator with connections to AQI senior leadership.  The terrorist leader reportedly commands 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.  The targeted individual is allegedly tied to several other terrorists closely associated with the leader, and is also involved in attacks against Coalition and Iraq forces in the region.

During the operation, the ground force observed two suspects maneuvering from the target building and directed them to stop their movement.  The suspects did not comply and continued to maneuver toward the ground force.  Perceiving hostile intent, Coalition forces engaged the two men, killing one and wounding the other.  The wounded individual was subsequently detained, along with two other suspects, and transported to a military medical facility for further treatment.

In Mosul Monday, Coalition forces captured an alleged AQI cell leader believed to be involved in attacks against Coalition and Iraq forces and to be associated with numerous terrorist leaders operating in the region.  The ground force detained four suspected terrorists in addition to the wanted individual. 

On the east side of Mosul, Coalition forces detained an additional six suspects while targeting a foreign terrorist facilitator also responsible for coordinating attacks against Coalition and Iraq forces.

“Coalition forces will continue to strike Al-Qaeda in Iraq networks,” said Lt. Michael Street, MNF-I spokesman.  “We stand committed to our mission to capture, kill and push out these terrorists and other extremists from their hiding places to end their campaigns of indiscriminate violence.”

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