ISF, MNF capture anti-Iraqi militants
Forward Operating Base Kalsu, Iraq -- Iraqi Security Forces and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit captured four suspected anti-Iraqi militants during both planned operations and a couple of seized opportunities in Northern Babil province Oct. 3.
Iraqi SWAT members and national guardsmen, supported by the MEU's Force Reconnaissance platoon and other Multi-National Forces, rolled up a former Ba'ath Party leader in the vicinity of Hillah. The arrest came during the latest in a series of cordon-and-knock operations targeting criminals and other anti-Iraqi elements.
Separately, ISF and Marines with the Chicago-based 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines -- operating under the command of the MEU -- conducted similar operations near Lutafiyah to round up individuals wanted in connection with attacks on Iraqi and coalition forces.
The MEU's air combat element, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263, provided close air support and aerial reconnaissance during both missions.
Near Iskandariyah, 30 minutes after Marines from Small Craft Company took small-arms fire during a riverine patrol, Marines from Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines, detained two men. One was stopped at a vehicle checkpoint after the Marines noticed a window in the car he was driving sported bullet holes. The other individual was picked up after he fled from a house as a patrol approached. Both men tested positive for gunpowder residue. Elsewhere, Marines from Charlie Company, BLT 1/2, detained a suspected militant at a vehicle checkpoint.
Since assuming operational control of northern Babil July 29, the MEU has worked closely with ISF to disrupt criminal and other anti-Iraqi activity in the area. To date, more than 160 individuals throughout the province have been captured.
Release #041003e
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