Detainees come down to 16,900 – U.S. army

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: Task Force 134 Detainee Operations, in its continuous effort to ensure fair releases not mass releases of its detainee population, has released nearly 15,900 detainees so far this year, according to a U.S. army statement. “Those individuals have been returned to their families and communities, in recognition that these internees no longer pose a threat to Iraqis and as an example of the Coalition Forces commitment to promoting an environment of care and respect in the conduct of detainee operations,” read the statement received by IraqiNews.com on Tuesday. “The current releases have brought the total internee population in Coalition forces custody to about 16,900.” “These are not mass releases, but fair releases,” said Brig. Gen. David Quantock, Multi-National Forces Iraq Deputy Commanding General of Task Force 134. Quantock also explained that the increased level of releases is largely due to the improved security in Iraq. “This coupled with the educational and vocational classes offered inside the theater internment facility, has created a population of internees that are excited about returning to their communities and becoming productive and prosperous citizens,” he added. “Also, the internees have the opportunity to participate in classes in basic Arabic language skills, mathematics and science. Vocational classes such as wood-working, sewing and masonry provide valuable skills that the internees can use to help rebuild their communities when they are released and earn money that they can give to their families while they are in custody.” “We have a responsibility to the people of Iraq that extends beyond ensuring those detained in our theater internment facilities are treated with care and respect,” said Quantock. “We must also ensure that our process for release ensures the protection and security of the citizens in the communities that these detainees return to, so our processes must be responsible and deliberate.” AmR (S) 1