8th Iraqi Army division forces, with the assistance of coalition advisers, detained the head of the Al Kut Office of the Martyr Sadr on Dec. 9, for alleged involvement in illegal arms smuggling activities and directing attacks against Iraqi Security Forces in the area.
Based on credible intelligence, he was detained by Iraqi forces because he allegedly orders his followers to conduct indirect fire attacks and place improvised explosive devices in Al Kut and An Numaniyah targeting Iraqi and Coalition Forces. He is also suspected of approving an ambush carried out against an Iraqi Army patrol on Sept. 11, 2006.
Iraqi Army forces cordoned and entered the OMS and several adjacent buildings to detain the suspect and other cell members. The suspect was found in the OMS building along with IED making components consisting of an artillery projectile, 2 rocket propelled grenades, hand grenades, blasting caps and propellant charges for mortar rounds. Also found were 2 assault rifles, 17 rifle magazines, night vision goggles, a video camera, tactical vests, cell phones and a hand-held two-way radio
Five doors were damaged by Iraqi forces when entering the buildings. No other damage was caused by Iraqi or Coalition Forces to the OMS or surrounding area. Iraqi forces exchanged small arms fire with hostile elements, slightly wounding one enemy fighter. The fighter was treated by medical personnel on-site and detained along with three additional armed suspects. There were no Iraqi forces or Coalition Forces casualties. There were no reports of civilian casualties. |