Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20080720-09
July 20, 2008

Baghdad National ERB detains two suspected Special Groups criminals, kills six
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BALAD, Iraq – Baghdad National Emergency Response Brigade detained two suspected Special Groups criminals and killed six during an operation in Baghdad July 20.

In Sadr City, the ERB detained a suspected Special Groups criminal leader and an associate believed to be responsible for supplying lethal weapons to other Special Groups criminals in Baghdad.

One of the suspected criminals is said to be the leader of a cell responsible for multiple attacks against Coalition forces in the area and for seeking lethal weapons from Iran.

After detaining the suspects, ERB proceeded to a suspected cache site located in the New Baghdad district and came under attack, returning fire and killing two. After a brief cease fire, ERB came under fire again from elements within the building and called for close air support from Coalition forces. Coalition aircraft fired 40 and 105 mm rounds at the building, when a large explosion occurred, leading the team to believe it contained a weapons cache.

While assessing the building, ERB continued to come under attack. Three suspected criminals fled into an adjacent building while four others were killed during the exchange of gunfire.

“The Baghdad National ERB demonstrated its ability to execute precision operations in support of the Government of Iraq’s efforts to disrupt Special Groups criminal activities in Baghdad,” said Lt. Col. Neil Harper, a Multi-National Corps – Iraq. 

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