Multi-National Corps – Iraq

Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory

APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RELEASE No. 20081127-01

Nov. 27, 2008

18 Females from Suicide Vest Cell turn themselves in

Multi-National Division – North PAO

TIKRIT, Iraq – Eighteen females in northern Iraq who were associated with Al-Qaeda in Iraq suicide bombing cells turned themselves into Coalition forces on Nov. 26.

The females were persuaded by their mullahs and fathers to cease their training in suicide operations and reconcile.

Today, these women took the first step in reconciliation by turning themselves in and signing a reconciliation pledge.

Individuals who turn themselves into CF and want to demonstrate their willingness to cease attacks against the Government of Iraq, Iraqi civilians, Iraqi Security Forces and CF can enter the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process. Eligible petitioners provide weapons and information on insurgent groups and sign a pledge to cease attacks and declare their support for the GoI.

“The fact that so many potential women suicide bombers turned themselves in today shows remarkable solidarity and unity as the people of Iraq continue to turn the tide against Al Qaeda and their barbaric methods to terrorize the populace,” said Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, commander, Multi-National Division -- North.  “Preying on the vulnerabilities of these women is a hallmark AQI tactic, and today’s event should serve as an example for other women who find themselves in similar situations, showing them there is another way.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE MULTI-NATIONAL DIVISION – NORTH PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE AT:  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it OR DSN 318-856-0218

FOR THIS PRESS RELEASE AND OTHERS, VISIT HTTP://WWW.BRAGG.ARMY.MIL/MNCI/DEFAULT.HTM