|
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (May 13, 2008) - The security environment in
Basra, Iraq, has improved dramatically since 1st Iraqi Army Quick
Reaction Force fought its way into the city April 1.
Criminal elements had taken over parts of the city from local
Iraqi security forces and imposed their own rule on a city that
once was a cultural and commercial beacon for all of Iraq.
"This city was being held hostage by a small group of criminal
militias," said Marine Corps Col. Robert F. Castellvi, military
training team advisor for 1st Iraqi Army Quick Reaction Force.
Music and Western influence were prohibited; women faced death
threats if they ventured outside their homes dressed in anything
other than a full burkah; and intersections were used as mortar
positions.
In less than a month, life in Basra couldn't be more
different.
The Iraqi soldiers continue to pursue criminals and outlaws
through Basra's neighborhoods, but as Quick Reaction Force 1,
formerly 1st Brigade, moves through neighborhoods such as
Jumhuriya, the sound of gunfire no longer is common.
"The people are happier now," said Marine Corps Maj. Robert S.
Washington, senior military transition team advisor for 2nd
Battalion, Quick Reaction Force 1. "They can go out; they can go to
the markets."
Stores opened early in the morning as the soldiers cleared
houses next door, looking for weapons, bombs and wanted criminals.
Children walked to school past Iraqi army Humvees and posed for
pictures with soldiers.
In Jumhuriya, local citizens volunteered information that led to
the arrest of nearly 10 suspected local gang members and the
discovery of illegal weapons and improvised explosive devices.
"[The Iraqi soldiers] are getting a lot of their information by
going out and talking to the local civilians," Marine Corps 2nd Lt.
Matthew S. Weant, staff intelligence advisor for the Iraqi
battalion. "We've had people lead us directly to weapons caches and
IEDs; even bringing them to us."
There is more to be done in Basra. The Iraqi government and
coalition forces are working with local leaders to address issues
with sanitation, infrastructure and economy that will provide
long-lasting improvements to the quality of life for local
residents.
Recently, local officials opened an open-air market in the
neighborhood of Jameat in an effort to boost the local economy.
Local Iraqi security forces continue to hold the ground taken by
the quick-reaction force to guard against a possible resurgence of
criminal activity. But, boosted by the confidence of success, they
say they are ready for whatever may happen.
|
