IA, ISF, U.S. SPECIAL FORCES DETAIN KEY ROGUE JAYSH AL-MAHDI SUSPECT IN SOUTHERN IRAQ

Description: BAGHDAD – Elements of the 3rd Division of the Iraqi Army and Iraqi Security Forces, with U.S. Special Forces as advisors, detained a key member of a rogue element of the Jaysh al-Mahdi militia July 23 during an intelligence driven raid in al-Imam near al-Hillah. The targeted individual is reportedly in charge of a JAM political wing in Al Imam responsible for emplacing improvised explosive devices and explosively formed penetrators along supply routes targeting Iraqi and Coalition Forces, causing the deaths of several Coalition Forces. The assault team located, identified and detained the primary target without incident or resistance. Iraqi Forces also seized JAM propaganda, cellular telephones, one AK-47 rifle and numerous documents. No Iraqi or Coalition Forces members were injured during the operation.

IRAQI SECURITY FORCES AND U.S. SPECIAL FORCES DETAIN 13 SUSPECTED TERRORISTS
BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces, with U.S. Special Forces as advisors, detained 13 suspected terrorists belonging to Al Qa’ida during two operations July 23 near Baghdad. In the first operation, Iraqi Security Forces detained eight individuals linked to an Al Qai’da cell involved in sniper operations and death squad activities near Hayy Aamel. The targeted individuals were detained without incident or resistance. Iraqi Security Forces seized four AK-47 rifles and ammunition, cellular telephones, U.S. newspapers and other documents during this operation . In the second operation, Iraqi Security Forces detained five suspects reportedly involved in Al Qai’da sniper and death squad activities near Al Tib. Iraqi Forces seized a rifle, a pistol and ammunition, and documents at this location. These operations are aimed at disrupting Al Qai’da activities in the southern Baghdad area.