Explosion kills 9, wounds 43 in Baghdad

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

12.17.2008

Courtesy Story

Multi-National Division Baghdad

By the Multi-National Division – Baghdad Public Affairs Office

BAGHDAD – An explosion killed two Iraqi traffic policemen and seven civilians at the Rusafa motorcycle traffic police headquarters in eastern Baghdad's Rusafa District at approximately 11 a.m., Dec. 17.

Eighteen traffic policemen and 25 Iraqi civilians were wounded in the blast.

National policemen from 8th Brigade, 2nd National Police Division, and Multi-National Division - Baghdad explosive ordnance disposal Soldiers and troopers from 3rd Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, responded to the scene.

A secondary weapon, an improvised explosive device, was discovered and dismantled at the same location by the national policemen. It is believed the IED was placed to target first responders and onlookers to the original blast.

The wounded were evacuated to an area hospital.

"These cowardly militants targeted and attacked defenseless, innocent Iraqi civilians along with traffic police officers without regard for whom they might harm or kill," said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division. "We offer our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the victims of this despicable and unwarranted terrorist attack."

• Date Taken: 12.17.2008
• Date Posted: 12.17.2008 10:16
• Story ID: 27808
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ