Afghan Local and Uniformed Police repel suicide bombing attack in Panjwai

KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN

09.13.2013

Story by Staff Sgt. Brandon McIntosh 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan- Afghan Local Police and Afghan Uniformed Police saved countless lives Sept. 9 in Kandahar province’s Panjwai district, repelling an attempted attack on the district’s headquarters before insurgent efforts could get underway.

Two Taliban insurgents armed with suicide vests were dressed in AUP uniforms. The first attacker’s vest exploded just outside the compound when he was shot by AUP and security guards. The second would-be bomber also died from gunshot wounds, but without detonating his vest.

“The Taliban were desperate in their attack and they failed,” said Panjwai Governor Faizal Mohammad. “Their attack proves they are desperate because they know they are losing the fight in Panjwai. This attack will not deter the district headquarters or the people.”

The AUP and ALP worked together to secure the compound and all routes leading to the attack location within minutes of the initial detonation. They also found a car bomb near the ALP checkpoint. The car bomb and unexploded insurgent’s vest were secured, moved to a safe location and destroyed.

“Provincial Gov. Wesa recommended the security guards for bravery awards because of their actions during the attack, especially preventing anyone from being hurt or killed,” said Jawed Faisal, spokesperson for the provincial governor.

An investigation of the attack determined that neither of the attackers were legitimate AUP patrolmen. They were insurgents in stolen uniforms.

• Date Taken: 09.13.2013
• Date Posted: 09.13.2013 08:04
• Story ID: 113576
• Location: KANDAHAR, AF