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Note: The following text is a quote:

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15791&Itemid=21

Press Release A071211b
December 11, 2007

Coalition forces capture Special Groups leader, 11 detained

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces captured a suspected Special Groups criminal element leader and detained ten other suspects during operations early Tuesday in the Baghdad area.

The targeted individual reportedly supervised criminal splinter group trainers throughout Iraq. He allegedly coordinated the explosively formed penetrator, improvised explosive device, operational security and computer security training of numerous criminals, and was personally responsible for paying each trainer every month. He also reportedly directed his cell to attack Coalition forces and assassinate Iraqis who worked with Coalition forces.

Intelligence led ground forces to the target area, where the wanted individual was captured and the ten other suspects were detained without incident. Additionally, ground forces discovered body armor, two assault rifles, a bayonet, two pistols, multiple ammunition magazines and a large amount of Iraqi currency.

“Al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr’s cease-fire pledge has helped stem the violence, but criminal splinter groups remain intent on disrupting the growth and development of the government of Iraq,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “We remain committed to dismantling these criminal networks.”

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