Press Release 20100218-01
Feb. 18, 2010

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces arrested a wanted attack-cell member who works directly with al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) and five other suspected terrorists during two joint security operations conducted in central Iraq today.

The Government of Iraq coordinated and approved both operations.  U.S. forces support and advise the ISF when requested by the Government of Iraq under the Security Agreement between Iraq and the U.S.

In southwestern Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched two residential buildings for and arrested a suspected explosives expert believed to be actively planning improvised-explosive attacks in the Baghdad area for AQI and other terrorist groups.

Based on preliminary investigation and questioning conducted at the scene, the suspected bomb builder was identified and arrested.

During a separate security operation conducted in Baqubah, located approximately 48 km northeast of Baghdad, Iraqi Police and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected member of an AQI cell believed to be responsible for attacks throughout the region.

Security team members found IED-making materials, a handgun and assorted ammunition within one of the searched buildings.

Information obtained during preliminary investigation and questioning conducted at the scene led Iraqi Police to arrest six suspected criminal associates of the warranted individual.

Senior members of AQI have stated their intentions to disrupt pre-election campaigning and decrease voter turnout by staging deadly attacks against civilians, security forces and government officials.

All arrested individuals will be tried and prosecuted in an Iraqi court of law.

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