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Baghdad, Iraq --
Multi-National Forces detained a key leader of the
al Qa’ida-linked Abu Musab al-Zarqawi terrorist
network in Mosul on Dec. 22.
Following a thorough investigation, the individual
detained was positively identified as Abdul Aziz
Sa’dun Ahmed Hamduni, aka Abu Ahmed.
Abu Ahmed served as a deputy to the emir of Mosul,
Abu Talha, and assumed command of terrorist
operations in Mosul in Abu Talha’s absence. Abu
Ahmed admitted to receiving money and weapons from
Abu Talha as well as coordinating and conducting
terrorist attacks in Mosul.
“The capture of Abu Ahmed, and the subsequent
capture of Abu Marwan on 23 December, show
significant progress in the inevitable destruction
of the Abu Talha-led Al-Queda-Zarqawi terrorist
network in Mosul,” said Brig. Gen. Erwin F. Lessel
III, spokesman for Multi-National Forces-Iraq.
Security forces in Iraq have previously announced
the capture of Abu Marwan, also a senior-level
terrorist in the Talha organization. Security forces
also recently captured another senior Talha member
whose name cannot be released due to operational
security reasons.
“Currently, security forces in Iraq have three of
Abu Talha’s four most senior leaders in custody,”
Lessel said.
The capture of these key members has led to
additional captures throughout the Mosul-based
AQ-AMZ network. More than 20 percent of Talha’s key
members have been captured in the past few weeks.
Abu Ahmed’s capture removed one of Abu Talha’s most
valuable officers from the Mosul-based AQ-AMZ
terrorist network. Abu Ahmed remains in detention
and is providing information regarding the Talha
network.
“These terrorists and Saddamists are doing all they
can to stop upcoming elections,” Lessel said. “They
fear democracy and the day when the Iraqi people
vote for a representative government. The vote by
the Iraqi people will reject everything the
terrorists stand for -- killing innocents, depriving
people of food, electricity.”
The use of car bombs and other explosive devices by
Abu Ahmed and his affiliates shows disregard for the
well-being and security of innocent Iraqi civilians.
The Central Criminal Court of Iraq is committed to
providing a fair trial to those allegedly engaging
in terrorist activities. Those found guilty will be
punished accordingly, and thus lose the ability to
provide for the future of their families.
The IIG and Multi-National Forces are committed to
bringing peace and stability to Iraq and its people.
Iraq’s government and security forces grow stronger
and more capable every day.
Release #050108c
http://www.mnf-iraq.com
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