Oct. 5, 2007
Press Release A071005a
Coalition forces target Special Groups member, kill 25 terrorists
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces were engaged in a heavy firefight Friday morning, killing an estimated 25 criminals during operations west of Baqubah.
Coalition forces were targeting a Special Groups commander believed to be associated with members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard – Quds Force. Intelligence indicates that he was responsible for facilitating criminal activity and is involved in the movement of various weapons from Iran to Baghdad.
Upon entering the target area, Coalition forces received heavy fire from a group of armed men fighting from defensive positions. Responding in self-defense, the ground force returned fire. Enemy fire intensified and supporting aircraft were called in an attempt to suppress the threat.
The armed group continued to engage, and began to aggressively maneuver toward Coalition forces, firing assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenades. The ground force also observed one armed individual carrying what appeared to be an anti-aircraft weapon into a nearby building. Perceiving hostile intent, supporting aircraft engaged, killing an estimated 25 criminals and destroying two buildings.
“We continue to support the Government of Iraq in welcoming the commitment by Muqtada al-Sadr to stop attacks and we will continue to show restraint in dealing with those who honor his pledge. We will not show the same restraint against those criminals who dishonor this pledge by attacking security forces and Iraqi citizens,” said Maj. Anton Alston, MNF-I spokesman. “Coalition forces will take the necessary action against these criminals to protect the Iraqi people against future terrorist acts.”
Link