Iraqi commandos and US soldiers stepped up operations in Samarra, north of Baghdad, in search for top wanted militant Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, a senior Iraqi security official revealed. "We have information that Zarqawi may be hiding in Samarra or this region and this operation is aimed at checking that out," the officer told AFP on Sunday under condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, the CNN television network showed what it said were fresh photos of the Jordanian born Zarqawi, who appeared bearded and smiling.The official said 66 suspects have been arrested in the operation, which is expected to last a week with the goal of rounding up 250 wanted suspects working for seven armed groups in the area. On the ground all entrances leading to Samarra, 120 kilometers, were sealed as Iraqi and US forces conducted their searches. No vehicles were allowed to circulate inside the city where most businesses, schools and government institutions were closed for a second day.
The US military confirmed the operation. "Elements of the Iraqi Ministry of Interiors 1st Commando Brigade began operations to kill or capture insurgent elements in the city of Samarra this weekend," said Major Richard Goldenberg of the 42nd Infantry Division adding that US soldiers are providing a supporting role. He said the operation was based on Iraqi intelligence.
US troops are eager to show that Iraq's fledgling forces are assuming control of securing the country One Iraqi soldier was killed and five wounded when their patrol was attacked by gunmen overnight east of Samarra, said Captain Ahmed Sadad of the Iraqi army. Four other soldiers were wounded in a roadside bomb in the Al-Duluiyah area, south of Samarra, said police and medical sources. Samarra was the scene of a US-led assault in October to reclaim the city from rebels that left more than one hundred people dead and most of the insurgent leaders at large.