Iraqis Arrest 16 Terrorism Suspects

Compiled from U.S. Forces Iraq News Releases

June 29, 2010 - Iraqi security forces arrested 16 suspected criminal associates of the al-Qaida in Iraq terrorist organization in recent operations, military officials reported.

In Beiji, southwest of Kirkuk, Iraqi forces and U.S. advisors today searched several buildings for a suspected al-Qaida in Iraq member allegedly involved in building roadside bombs.

A large amount of evidence believed to be related to the manufacture, emplacement and employment of bombs targeting security forces and civilians was collected at the scene. Additional information and evidence gathered there led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the wanted man and five suspected criminal associates.

In western Baghdad yesterday, Iraqi forces and U.S. advisors searched several buildings seeking a suspected al-Qaida in Iraq leader allegedly involved in producing roadside bombs. Information and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest four suspected criminal associates of the wanted man.

Southwest of Mosul yesterday, Iraqi forces and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected al-Qaida in Iraq member allegedly involved in the movement of foreign fighters into Iraq. Information and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest six suspected criminal associates of the wanted man.