The operations objective was an individual reported to be a long time Special Groups member specialising in kidnapping operations, the Multi-National Force – Iraq (MNF-I) said in a statement.
Intelligence indicates he is a well-known cell leader and has previously sought funding from Iran to carry out high profile kidnappings, it said.
Collation forces estimate that 49 criminals were killed in three separate engagements during this operation. Ground forces reported they were unaware of any innocent civilians being killed as a result of this operation, the statement added.