PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 12, 2008
Coalition targets al-Qaeda in Iraq networks; two terrorists killed, two detained
By None , MNFI

BAGHDAD, Iraq (Feb. 12, 2008) – Coalition forces killed two terrorists and detained two suspects Monday and today during operations to disrupt al-Qaeda networks operating in central Iraq.

Coalition forces conducted an operation northeast of Samarra Monday near the Hamrin Mountains targeting alleged al-Qaeda in Iraq associates involved in the suicide bombing network in the Diyala River Valley. Intelligence reports led Coalition forces to a location where the targeted individuals were believed to be operating.

As they arrived in the target area, Coalition forces were engaged by enemy fire. Responding in self-defense, the assault force engaged, killing two terrorists, who were both armed with suicide vests.

Once the area was secure, the ground force recovered two AK-47s and destroyed the suicide vests inside a vehicle on site to prevent further use for terrorist activity.

Southwest of Samarra today, Coalition forces captured an alleged al-Qaeda in Iraq member involved in the facilitation of weapons and improvised explosive devices. The suspect is believed to be responsible for a car-bomb factory located in the area and several weapons caches on another property.

Reports indicate the suspect is associated with numerous AQI members involved in car-bomb facilitation networks, to include individuals detained last fall for their alleged involvement in terrorist attacks and foreign terrorist facilitation. An additional suspected terrorist was also detained.

“Iraqi and Coalition forces are committed to ending the terror al-Qaeda in Iraq has brought,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “Al-Qaeda’s war on innocent Iraqi civilians is the result of a twisted and morally bankrupt philosophy that runs contrary to the values of Iraqi citizens. These terrorists are unwelcome in Iraq.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE MNF-I PRESS DESK at: [email protected].