LOC14:18
11:18 GMT
BAGHDAD, Dec 28 (KUNA) -- Iraqi Army forces arrested one of Al-Qaeda
extremist during heavy clashes in southern Baghdad, the law enforcement plan
spokesmen Brigadier Qasem Atallah said on Friday.
The source told Kuwait News Agency KUNA that the move was based on tips by
civilians which were verified by intelligence authorities. The western area of
Al-Mahmoudia City was immediately cordoned off with backup from the
Multi-National Forces (MNF).
Meanwhile, he said MNF forces engaged in armed clashes with a group of
militias where the so-called defense minister of the Islamic state of Iraq,
Ahmad Turki Abbas, was detained along with a group of Al-Qaeda members.
The detainees are currently being interrogated, the spokesman said, noting
that the detained leader was mildly injured.
Al-Mahmoudia is considered a hot spot for Al-Qaeda operatives. (end)
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KUNA 281418 Dec 07NNNN