Russell, during Friday's operation, noted that the village of Uja was unusual because so many key figures in the former government had roots in this area.
Among them is Izzat Ibrahim al-Douri, a longtime Saddam confidant whom US officials suspect as a force behind some of the recent attacks. US officials believe al-Douri has linked up with members of the Islamic extremist group Ansar al-Islam to stage attacks against coalition forces.
Despite strong support for Saddam in this area, there was no visible resistance to the American operation, and people lined up quietly outside a police station to register for ID cards.
"I chose right in coming here. We need the safety," said Ahmed al-Naseri, who told reporters he was a cousin of Saddam. "We need freedom."
Another self-described Saddam relative, Ali Sherif al-Naseri, said people had no choice but to comply with the American orders.
"It may not be totally fair, but it's a good idea," he said.
As the operation was under way, groups of soldiers manned foxholes at strategic points around the village. Bradley armored vehicles also stood guard.
Russell emphasized that the registration system would benefit villagers who want to move forward now that their most famous son is out of power.
"We have provided security," he said. "We have provided a cordon. We are not limiting the movement of those that live in the town. Once they have a pass they have complete freedom of movement as they would at any other time."
RSS