BAGHDAD, Iraq, Aug. 4, 2004 —- Iraqi police officers in Mosul were attacked earlier today by anti-Iraqi forces on the east side of the city, but launched a series of counterstrikes against anti-Iraqi forces that removed dangerous criminals and weapons off the streets of the northern city, according to Office of Security Transition officials.

“This operation proves that we will not bow to our enemies and with the help of God, we will defeat them,” said Maj. Gen. Mohammad Barhawi, the chief of police for the Ninevah province.

At around noon Aug. 4, anti-Iraqi forces launched attacks in the city. The attacks were countered by Iraqi police, Iraqi National Guard, and Facilities Protection Services and lasted for more than three hours. Four vehicles carrying rocket propelled grenades, mortars, mines, surface-to-air missiles, launchers, and other explosives were seized by the police. Nine anti-Iraqi force members were killed, 22 were captured. Three Iraqi police officers were wounded, one seriously.

“Mosul will remain a symbol of the unity of Iraq and a symbol of the fight against terrorists,” Barhawi said.