25 Captured During Operations Seeking Out Those Connected to Al Qaeda in Iraq

According to Multi National Forces-Iraq, 25 individuals were captured and two were killed during missions in northern and central Iraq. The purpose of the missions was to break up al Qaeda networks in the area.

One individual wanted for terrorism and thought to be an al Qaeda in Iraq leader was killed by Coalition forces south of Baqubah. The individual had taken over for the previous leader of the Divala area, who died on November 11^th. Two of the buildings within the mission area were secured by Coalition forces, and as they proceeded to secure a third, they witnessed two individuals moving toward a crop of palm trees. Coalition forces thought there was a threat and engaged to two men. Both were killed, and one was later named as the wanted individual that military sources were looking for. 3 other suspects were captured during the mission.

Also during the mission a weapons storage area was found by military forces and contained a large amount of weapons and media papers.

In another mission in Baghdad, Coalition forces sought out media operations and 1 wanted suspect was captured that is stated to be connected to media networks for al Qaeda in Iraq and is thought to be working with senior terrorist leaders in the region. He is also believed to be an organizer for terrorist networks. During the mission 1 other individual was captured and is being held for questioning.

In three other locations, Coalition forces sought foreign terrorist organizers. Near Samarra and to the east, 1 wanted suspect was captured that is thought to be a foreign terrorist organizer. It is stated that he is connected to media networks as well. 3 other individuals were captured without resistance.

North of Samarra, 6 individuals were captured for being or being associated with foreign terrorist organizers, and in Haditha 4 individuals were captured while Coalition forces were looking for foreign terrorist organizers and those connected with al Qaeda in Iraq leaders. A large amount of American funds were also uncovered during the mission.