Coalition forces killed four Iranian-trained Special Groups criminals and detained five other suspected criminals Thursday during operations in Rashidiyah, north of Baghdad, reported AFP.

Intelligence sources led Coalition forces to the location of an Iranian-trained Special Groups criminal suspected of receiving weapons and finances from Iran in order to lead attacks against Coalition forces. He is also suspected of directing and conducting kidnappings and sectarian violence against Iraqi citizens.

Despite receiving sporadic small arms fire attacks, Coalition forces apprehended the suspected criminal and three other suspects. Coalition forces continued to another location to capture an additional suspected criminal wanted for hostile acts against Iraqi forces.

“Coalition forces will continue to seek out these criminal elements supported by Iran who threaten the security of Iraqi citizens and who undermine the sovereignty of Iraq,” said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman.