Coalition forces detain 15 militants

BAGHDAD, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. military officials say 15 suspected al-Qaida operatives and other militants were captured by coalition forces in Iraq Thursday.

During a series of operations targeting suspected al-Qaida networks throughout Iraq, coalition forces were able to make the arrests, according to the American Forces Press Service.

Officials say eight suspects were detained by coalition forces for their alleged connection to improvised-explosive-device attacks, local car bombings and gun-running activities southwest of Tarmiyah.

One of detainees linked to false documentation and terrorist-funding activities was detained northwest of Tikrit with three other suspects. Coalition officials say the suspect is believed to have ties to Syrian-based extremists tied to al-Qaida in Iraq.

Additionally, in Baghdad an individual linked to kidnappings and attacks on coalition forces was captured with two other suspects. U.S. intelligence reports indicate the individual has ties to terrorist leaders operating throughout Baghdad.

“Targeting al-Qaida in Iraq networks and criminals responsible for vicious attacks against innocent Iraqis and their security forces is a top priority,” said Army Maj. Winfield Danielson, a Multi-National Force-Iraq spokesman, in a statement. “We will continue to find and dismantle terrorist networks that try to deny the Iraqi people a future of their own choosing.”