Multi-National force - Iraq investigates Altercation

[The Straight Story]

April 19, 2005
Release Number: 05-04-14


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ INVESTIGATES ALTERCATION

BAGHDAD, Iraq -- An altercation occurred this morning at Checkpoint # 2 in the International Zone as the Transitional National Assembly was gathering. The altercation involved a member of the Assembly, Coalition Force members, and Iraqi Security Forces.

An immediate preliminary investigation revealed that Mr. Fatah al-Shaik's vehicle departed the long line of traffic by crossing the median, and approached checkpoint 2 from the opposite traffic lane. Upon arriving at the checkpoint, he got out of his vehicle and a verbal and physical altercation began with an interpreter supporting Coalition Forces. U.S. Soldiers then intervened and rendered assistance to diffuse the situation by stepping between Mr. al-Shaik and the interpreter which resulted in a Soldier physically separating the two individuals by holding Mr. al-Shaik momentarily. Another member of Mr. al-Shaik's party was prevented from exiting the vehicle by a US Soldier. This incident is under investigation by Multi-National Force-Iraq.

"We have the highest respect for all members of the Transitional National Assembly. Their safety and security is critically important," said Brig. Gen. Karl R. Horst, Deputy Commander for Maneuver, Multi-National Division-Baghdad.

"Professional Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces are dedicated to this challenging mission. We regret this incident occurred and are conducting a thorough investigation."

http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/news_release.asp?NewsRelease=20050414.txt