FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR# 032307-01
March 23, 2007

KHALIS, Iraq – Coalition Forces from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, detained two key terrorist suspects this week in Diyala province.

“Corruption is a significant impediment in the progress of democracy and freedom within the province of Diyala and it adversely affects the confidence of the people,” said Col. David W. Sutherland, 3-1 Cav. commander and senior U.S. Army officer in Diyala.

Sadun Ibrahim Rashid Karim, a member of the Khalis judging council, was detained Monday for suspected ties to rogue militias and terrorist organizations. He is believed to be involved with the importation of weapons and explosives into Diyala, as well as association with cells responsible for attacks against the Iraqi people.

Juwad Bashir, the Khalis Iraqi Police Chief, was detained Wednesday for suspected ties to rogue militias, and the support and direction of death squads responsible for murders and kidnappings. Multiple reports indicate Juwad tortured Sunni prisoners and killed Sunni citizens.

“The Government of Iraq and Diyala are committed to the destruction of corruption in the government and security forces,” Sutherland added. “Coalition Forces within Diyala will assist them in their fight against fraud, just as we support the Iraqi Security Forces in the fight against terrorists.”

Both detainees were transferred to the Forward Operating Base Warhorse detention facility for further questioning.

Labels: 1st Cavalry Division, 3BCT, Good News