Four Iraqis believed to be linked to bomb and rocket attacks on British troops have been arrested during a series of raids in Basra.
Among those caught was a gang leader thought to be behind roadside bomb attacks on soldiers using the main supply route between south east Basra and Kuwait.
British forces in Basra said the man was also involved in rocket attacks on bases, as well as the extortion and kidnap of Iraqis.
The raids in three locations in and around Basra were undertaken by multi-national soldiers, under the command of 19 Light Brigade. During one of the raids in Basra, soldiers came under fire and reported shooting at least three militia.
Ammunition was found in one of the houses being targeted, the Army said. No British soldiers were injured.
Captain Ollie Pile, of the 19 Light Brigade, said the aim of the raids was to flush out and capture "criminals" intent on murder and creating disorder.
He said: "It is hoped that the outcome of these operations will be welcomed by the local population. Relations between multi-national forces and the residents of Safwan remain positive. There has been a lot of reconstruction work in the area and our continuing efforts to build upon the good community relations have worked."
Speaking in Basra, British military spokesman Major David Gell said the raids show the determination of UK soldiers to make the city safer. He said once that is achieved, Iraqis will be able to take responsibility for their own security.
The raids took place in the southern rural area of Safwan, the northern rural area of Al Hartha and central Basra.
Soldiers from the 1st Battalion of the Yorkshire Regiment and 38 Battery, 40 Regiment Royal Artillery were involved.
www.mod.uk(Ministry of Defence)
