The operation, which officially began June 19, continues to target criminal elements throughout the region of Amarah. The ISF led the combined effort, both planning and executing the operation. ISF located a total of (117) weapon caches and detained more than (63) criminals since the operation began. A four-day amnesty period prior to the start of the operation allowed citizens to turn in munitions not counted in the above list.The citizensÂ’ cooperation with the ISF was integral in the success of this mission. Their participation led to the peaceful nature of the operation.
“The operation has been a great success,” said Col. Charles A. Flynn, commander of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. “The Iraqi Police and Iraqi Army are out in force. They are doing the hard and dangerous work to arrest criminals and remove special groups from this area. At the same time, they’re providing humanitarian assistance to the citizens of Amarah and creating a safer environment to call home.”
As operations continue, the ISF is providing humanitarian aid through the delivery of food and water to the citizens of Amarah.