US-led coalition forces Wednesday detained 24 suspects in separate raids targeting the Al Qaeda network in Iraq, the US military reported.

Eight suspected terrorists reportedly involved in the 'coordination, movement and emplacement of vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices' used against Iraqi and coalition forces were detained in a raid in south Baghdad, an official statement said.

Five others were detained following a raid in Rutbah, which targeted a suspected weapons dealer believed to be involved in providing explosive material and in facilitating foreign fighters.

Coalition forces took into custody two suspected terrorists in Samarra, 125 km north of Baghdad, who were suspected of being involved in weapons trafficking and acquisition of identity cards and passports.

They also detained nine suspected terrorists with 'alleged ties to Al Qaeda leadership in Iraq from northeast of Karmah, 80 km west of Baghdad, the statement said.

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