US-Iraqi forces kill at least 200 militants to prevent attacks on religious pilgrims

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-30-2007 08:39

In Iraq, security forces backed by US helicopters have killed at least 200 militants, including the heavily armed Shiite religious cult's leader. This, during a day-long battle outside the Shiite holy city of Najaf. Officials say the operation was aimed at preventing attacks on religious pilgrims during major Shiite rituals.

The leader of an Iraqi cult who claimed to be the Mahdi -- a messiah-like figure in Islam -- was killed in the battle near Najaf, along with hundreds of his followers.

Also in Iraq on Monday bombings and mortar attacks targeting Shiites killed at least 15 people.

The fighting that began on Sunday in Najaf had largely subsided by Monday. Iraqi security forces frisked suspects while others patrolled the battlefield.

The U.S. military says it is an ongoing operation so it can not provide details.

The origins of the fighters in the cult are unclear. But Iraqi political and security sources say they are followers of a shadowy Muslim cult leader and some of the dead wore "Soldier of Heaven" headbands.

An Iraqi army source says U.S. forces took control of the operation on Sunday and bombed the area overnight.

Iraq's National Security Ministry says security operations are almost finished. And the army is still searching for insurgents.

Editor:Du Xiaodan