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Ramadi Citizens Arrest, Turn in "The Butcher", an al-Qaeda in Iraq Terrorist

CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, AR RAMADI, Iraq - The number three terrorist on the 2nd Brigade Combat Team (28th Infantry Division) High Value Individual list was detained today in the provincial capital of Ar Ramadi.

Amir Khalaf Fanus, an al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist in the Ramadi area, was wanted for criminal activities including murder and kidnapping. Today, local Iraqi citizens brought him to an Iraqi and U.S. Forces military base in Ramadi.

Fanus, also known in Ramadi by his Iraqi moniker, "the Butcher", was well-known for his crimes against the local populace. He is the highest ranking al Qaeda in Iraq member to be turned into Iraqi and U.S. officials by local citizens.

His capture is another indication that the local citizens tire of the insurgents' presence within their community. Iraqi and U.S. Forces have witnessed increasing signs of citizens fighting the terrorists within Ramadi as the Dec. 15 National Elections draw nearer.

Recently, an additional 1,200 Iraqi Security Force soldiers have recently been stationed in Ramadi. Approximately 1,100 Iraqi Special Police Commandos and a mechanized Iraqi Army company completed their planned movement into the city.

This plan has Iraqi Security Forces assuming more of the security responsibilities from the U.S. Forces. As in other locations, as security improves, Iraqi police will also be gradually introduced within the city.

Source: USMC