Multi-National Force-Iraq, 12 June 2008 — Coalition forces continued dismantling Special Groups criminal networks when they captured an alleged Iranian-trained Special Groups criminal Thursday in al-Kut, about 180 km southeast of Baghdad.
Acting on intelligence information, Coalition forces targeted a suspected Iranian-trained weapons smuggler known to operate in the al-Kut area. Thanks to tips provided by local Iraqis, Coalition forces were able to target the suspect’s hideout on the outskirts of the city.
As forces approached the house, several armed men threw down their weapons and attempted to flee. Coalition forces called for air support to use warning shots to contain the criminals, which allowed a team of soldiers to catch up and detain the individuals. After questioning the people on scene, Coalition forces detained the wanted man and one associate. Coalition forces also confiscated numerous weapons including firearms and mortar rounds.
“More and more the information provided by local citizens is the key to preventing criminals from their illegal weapon smuggling.” said U.S. Army Capt. Charles Calio, MNF-I spokesperson