Local Shaykh assists ISF, turns in suspected bomb maker
Multi-National Division – North - FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARRIOR, Kirkuk, Iraq — A local Shaykh fulfilled promises made to both Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces by helping convince a suspected insurgent to turn himself in.
Shaykh Nizar, a tribal leader in a village near Daquq, Iraq, was directly involved in bringing an alleged bomb maker to ISF custody April 16.
The suspect is believed to make bombs in the area. During a meeting with the Shaykh prior to the detention, Nizar had expressed the desire to help lessen the need for ISF and U.S. military raids in the village by offering to peacefully turn over any individuals that the ISF requested.
The next month, the U.S. military requested Nizar’s help in tracking down the suspect, who was believed to operate in the Shaykh’s area of influence.
Within a few days, a subordinate tribal leader associated with Nizar, Shaykh Kahrim, turned the suspect
“[This] shows the spread of support and trust for the Government of Iraq at the local level,” said Capt. Nathaniel Jennings, the commander of C Troop, 4th Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt.
"This community’s action demonstrates that Iraqis are able to handle law enforcement issues at a local level, while Coalition Forces play only a supporting role,” said Jennings.
According to Jennings, the coordination between Nazir and Iraqi Policeman was completely organized by ISF. The turning in of the suspect displays a high level of trust in government and highlights the fact that Iraqi civilians are willing to cooperate with IPs to make their towns safer.
The suspect is being held in Daquq and is awaiting trial.
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