BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraqi Special Operations Forces conducted a twilight raid in the Adhamiyah neighborhood in northeast Baghdad to disrupt a terrorist cell responsible for conducting attacks on Iraqi security and Coalition Forces and kidnapping Iraqi civilians in the local area. 

 

As elements of the 1st Iraqi Special Operations Forces Brigade entered their objective, they came under fire.  In the ensuing exchange of fire, Iraqi Special Operations Forces killed 16 insurgents.  As they secured their objective, they detained 15 more individuals. 

 

Additionally, one individual being held hostage by the insurgents was freed.  The identity of the hostage, a non-westerner, is not known at this time, but he is being debriefed and repatriated at this time. 

 

While searching the objective, Iraqi Special Operations Forces also discovered a cache with materials used to make improvised explosive devices and other weapons and ammunition. 

 

The materials were destroyed at the scene. 

U.S. Special Operations Forces were on scene in an advisory capacity only.  No Iraqi or U.S. forces were killed during this operation.  One Iraqi soldier received a wound that is not life threatening. 

 

This intelligence-focused, precision operation was conducted during twilight hours to ensure no civilians were in the area and to minimize the possibility of collateral damage. 

 

No mosques were entered or damaged during this operation.