"In Basra this week, Iraqi security forces continued operations against
illegally armed gangs, intimidation and extortion groups, and other
criminals," U.S. military spokesman Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll said.
"Although there still is much work to be done, citizens in Basra are
beginning to report a return to normal life."
Officials said Iraqi security forces have reported gains in Basra since
late March. They said police have arrested more than 430 suspected
criminals, including 28 fugitives who escaped death row.
The Interior Ministry has also asserted that stability was being
restored in Basra, the scene of heavy fighting in late March. Officials said
Basra residents were cooperating and relaying tips to police on suspected
criminal hideouts.
"Coalition forces continue to provide operational advisors, surveillance
information, and air-strike support for operations in Basra," Driscoll said
on April 14. "But the progress thus far in Basra is largely due to the
resolve and bravery of the Iraqi ground forces, the efficiency of the Iraqi
air force in maintaining supply and support, and the operational direction
of Iraqi civilian and military leadership."
Iraqi security forces have been relying heavily on U.S. military units
in Baghdad, officials said. They said Iraqi forces have sought to restore
order in Baghdad's Sadr City, the base of the Iranian-backed Mahdi Army.
"Without improved security, it is difficult to provide essential
services so that people can live their lives peacefully and freely,"
Driscoll said.
Officials said the Iraqi security forces have sought to demonstrate
their capability to conduct operations independent of the United States.
They said the Iraqi forces, whose performance was deemed "uneven" in Basra
against Iranian-backed militias, were moving toward becoming a professional
fighting unit.
