Iraqi SWAT team targets al-Qaida

SALMAN PAK, Iraq, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- A tactical Iraqi security force arrested 28 alleged militants in operations targeting al-Qaida in an area approximately 20 miles south of Baghdad.

An Iraqi SWAT unit under the supervision of U.S. Special Forces advisers launched an operation to capture an alleged al-Qaida commander suspected of overseeing militant activity near Salman Pak, Multi-National Forces-Iraq reported Wednesday.

Intelligence officials said the suspect financed operations to recruit foreign fighters to launch attacks against Iraqi security forces, citizens and U.S.-led forces using explosives and small-arms attacks.

The Iraqi team deployed from a helicopter landing zone and conducted clearing operations at multiple residences with U.S. forces.

The joint security team uncovered several munitions including a suicide vest, officials said.