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Multi-National Force-Iraq
investigates altercation
BAGHDAD, Iraq -- An altercation occurred this morning at
Checkpoint # 2 in the International Zone as the Transitional National
Assembly was gathering. The altercation involved a member of the
Assembly, Coalition Force members, and Iraqi Security Forces.
An immediate preliminary investigation revealed that Mr. Fatah al-Shaik's
vehicle departed the long line of traffic by crossing the median, and
approached checkpoint 2 from the opposite traffic lane. Upon arriving
at the checkpoint, he got out of his vehicle and a verbal and physical
altercation began with an interpreter supporting Coalition Forces.
U.S. Soldiers then intervened and rendered assistance to diffuse the
situation by stepping between Mr. al-Shaik and the interpreter which
resulted in a Soldier physically separating the two individuals by
holding Mr. al-Shaik momentarily. Another member of Mr. al-Shaik's
party was prevented from exiting the vehicle by a US Soldier. This
incident is under investigation by Multi-National Force-Iraq.
"We have the highest respect for all members of the Transitional
National Assembly. Their safety and security is critically important,"
said Brig. Gen. Karl R. Horst, Deputy Commander for Maneuver, MND-Baghdad.
"Professional Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces are dedicated
to this challenging mission. We regret this incident occurred and are
conducting a thorough investigation."
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THIS RELEASE, CONTACT
CPICPRESSDESK@IRAQ.CENTCOM.MIL.
Release #050419e |
