Iraqi Criminals Receive Chance to Start New Lives

"I ask that when you begin to build your new life, establish it on the new Iraqi laws," - Salem Bedin, Jisr Diyala city council leader

Photos courtesy: Joanna Fox

(BAGHDAD, Iraq) - A number of Iraqi citizens were released from the Jisr Diyala JSS, following a reconciliation ceremony, June 25th. The JSS are the patrol bases where U.S. soldiers, Iraqi police, and Iraqi army units operate from within the neighborhoods in Baghdad.

U.S. officials say the ceremony, which is held once a month, is a chance for the former detainees to reunite with their families and celebrate returning to their villages.

Eighteen men were detained after being found guilty of criminal acts in this instance. U.S. officials report that the reintegration process offers these citizens the chance to make amends for the mistakes of their past and start fresh.

"I ask that when you begin to build your new life, establish it on the new Iraqi laws," said Salem Bedin, Jisr Diyala city council leader.

The men were urged to help the fight against criminals in their area as they integrate back into their villages. "I ask that you join us in the Iraqi SF and help us continue our fight," said Mahmoud Jablawe, Tuwaitha North SoI leader.

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Photos and story courtesy: Joanna Fox. For more of Joanna's stories, visit: troopscoop.typepad.com