FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release No. 20060718-01 July 18, 2006  

Iraqi Forces capture a ‘Most Wanted’ insurgent leader in Diwaniyah 

BALAD – Iraqi security forces, while conducting a routine presence patrol at a checkpoint near Diwaniyah July 16, captured a ‘most wanted’ insurgent leader at an Iraqi Police checkpoint without incident.   

Iraqi forces received an anonymous tip that the individual, a local sheikh, was on his way toward the checkpoint, and they were on hand to detain him as he waited to pass through. 

The sheikh, who tops local police’s ‘most wanted’ list is believed to be in charge of several assassination cells in the Diwaniyah area.  He also is alleged to be involved in other insurgent operations and activities throughout Qadisiyah Province.

Two other individuals traveling with the sheikh also were detained; they were released a short while later. 

No Iraqi or coalition forces were injured during this operation.

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