By NNN-KUNA,
Baghdad : The Multi-National Force in Iraq (MNF) has said that it has arrested in Waset governorate, south of Baghdad a radical cell leader, who has connections with Iran.
According to the MNF Wednesday, the current radical cell has cut off connections with the Al-Mehdi army and joined forces with Iran, accusing the revolutionary guard in Tehran of backing and supporting the terrorist cell.
Intelligence information led to the capture of the suspect in Al-Nu’maniya town, in Koot city, one of the biggest cities in Waset governorate, said the MNF, adding that he was an expert in manufacturing improvised explosive devices.
Meanwhile, the MNF indicated that about 500 gunmen surrendered their weapons and decided to participate in the national reconciliation plan in the governorate of Salahuddin, north of Baghdad since May 22.
The gunmen, who were stationed in Balad town, stated that they were tired of being on the run, deciding to join their families and participating in the country’s national conciliation plan.
MNF official, Col-Lt Bob McCarthy indicated that it was a good step, adding that about 160 members went to court but were found innocent.
On other developments, a US marine died in a non-combat related incident.
The MNF said that with the new causality, the US has lost 4,095 soldiers since the beginning of the Iraqi freedom operation. Eleven US marines were killed so far in June.