Rescue of police hostage confirmed, pursuit of captors continues

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.06.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan - The International Security Assistance Force confirmed claims that a man discovered shackled and locked in a room during an Afghan and coalition force operation Monday was being held by the Taliban.

The man is an Afghan reserve police member in Marjah and was kidnapped at a checkpoint approximately one week prior to his rescue.

"We are extremely happy we were able to free this brave policeman," said U.S. Army Col. Rafael Torres, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. "Afghan civilians are standing up for the country they love when they join police and military forces, the Taliban are terrorizing these people who only want to establish a secure Afghanistan."

Meanwhile, Afghan and coalition forces detained two suspected Taliban insurgents in Helmand province Tuesday while in their continued pursuit of his alleged captor. The targeted individual commands up to 20 fighters in the Sistani area of Marjah District.

Intelligence tips led the joint security force to a remote compound in Marjah District to search for the targeted individual.

Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully and the joint security force cleared and secured the compound. The joint force then conducted initial questioning with the residents at the scene before detaining two suspected insurgents.

The security force did not fire their weapons and they protected the women and children for the duration of the search.

• Date Taken: 10.06.2010
• Date Posted: 10.06.2010 06:26
• Story ID: 57587
• Location: KABUL, AF