Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, killed two suspected criminals, detained four others and captured one al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist in three separate operations April 3. In the Dhi Qar province, south of Nasiriyah, the Nasiriyah Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics Unit detained one suspected improvised explosive device manufacturer. The suspect is accused of supplying the IED network that is responsible for the vast majority of IED and explosively formed penetrator attacks in the Dhi Qar region. According to reports, he procures IED materials through a foreign contact. One additional suspect was detained for questioning. ISWAT was attacked throughout the operation with small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades. A close-air support aircraft provided cover and killed two persons who were firing at ISWAT.
In Mosul, Ninewa ISWAT detained one suspected IED cell leader who is reported to operate in east and west Mosul. One other suspect found in the target area is being held for questioning. In Baghdad, 9th Iraqi Army Division Soldiers detained one suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist cell facilitator. The suspect is reported to be responsible for the movement of weapons, ammunition and other equipment for the terrorist cellÂ’s use against Iraqi and Coalition forces.