Security Responsibility Returns to Iraqis in Wasit Province

By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden | American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 29, 2008 – Complete security and governance responsibilities transferred to Iraqi officials in Wasit province today, giving Iraq's government responsibility for more than two-thirds of the country, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters during a news conference today.

"The national and local government now has responsibility for security and governance in all of southern Iraq," Morrell said. "It is our hope that Iraqis can take charge of security for the final five provinces in the coming months."

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Coalition Forces Detain Suspects in Mosul, Baghdad

American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 2, 2008 - Coalition forces in Iraq captured seven terrorism suspects, including two wanted men, in operations today, military officials reported.

Coalition forces, acting on tips from individuals already in custody, captured a wanted man and two additional suspects in Mosul. The wanted man is believed to be developing technology to impede coalition forces' ability to detect car bombs and other improvised explosive devices, officials said. Intelligence reports also suggest that the man is using his business as a cover for al-Qaida money-laundering activities.

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