Coalition Forces see progress in Diyala River Valley

"As lethal and non-lethal operations continue in the Diyala River Valley, Coalition Forces continue to see signs of progress throughout the area which clearly shows the people's disdain for terrorist activity and the increasing support of the Iraqi Security Forces," said Col. David W. Sutherland, senior U.S. Army officer in Diyala.

In Zaganiyah, Iraq, Saturday, citizens from the area approached members of the 5th Iraqi Army Division and Soldiers from the 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, assigned to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, to inform them of weapon caches and people responsible for placing improvised explosive devices.

The information provided by the citizens led to the discovery of two caches and the detention of two suspected terrorists who were still carrying the initiation systems for IEDs. Six anti-Iraqi forces were also killed in the area.

The caches included artillery rounds, an anti-tank mine, more than five rocket-propelled grenades and IED-making material.

Aside from the citizens providing information, the local tribal leaders have approached the patrol base in Zaganiyah to meet with the Iraqi army and Coalition leadership and discuss the way ahead.

"The willingness of these leaders to come to the patrol base demonstrates that the grip of al-Qaeda has loosened and the people no longer fear for their lives by talking with Americans," said Lt. Col. Andrew Poppas, 5-73 Cav. commander.

In other areas of the Diyala River Valley, tribal leaders who previously lacked confidence in the Iraqi Security Forces are now reaching out to the IA and police.

According to Poppas, the local leader in As Sadah has "taken the mantle of his leadership seriously and is determined to strike out on a path of independence," as he now regularly meets with the IA, IP and Shia leadership in surrounding areas to return Shia families to the area and fix essential services.

The leader in Had Maskar is also reaching out to the security forces to rid the area of terrorist activity.

"We continue to build on this hard-won momentum by remaining on the offense," Poppas said.

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