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) mhg.sab KUNA 281418 Dec 07NNNN