Coalition forces detained 18 suspects today during operations targeting al-Qaeda networks in central Iraq.North of Samarra Coalition forces captured a wanted individual believed to be an associate of the terrorist network in the region. The suspect is allegedly involved in weapons facilitation and media and propaganda operations in the Tigris River Valley. Reports also indicate the wanted individual is associated with a suspect detained during an operation Nov. 15 for his ties to al Qaeda in Iraq senior leadership. The individual identified himself to the ground force and was subsequently detained along with three other suspects.
Ten suspects were detained north of Habbaniyah during another operation targeting associates of al Qaeda in Iraq media and propaganda operations. As the ground force cleared the target area, they discovered ID making materials, several machine guns, rifles and ammunition.
During an operation in Sadiyah, Coalition forces captured another wanted individual believed to be involved in the facilitation of weapons for terrorist activities in the region. Reports indicate the wanted individual is associated with numerous al-Qaeda members operating in the Diyala River Valley network who have recently been involved in engagements with Coalition forces. In addition to the wanted individual, the ground force detained three suspects on site, and safely destroyed one vehicle assessed to be used for terrorist activities. “This continues to be a tough fight that will test the courage and strength of the Iraqi people, the Iraqi Security forces and Coalition forces,” said Navy Capt. Vic Beck, MNF-I spokesman. “Together, we will continue to disrupt al Qaeda’s operations and degrade their ability to attack innocent Iraqis.”