Assassination cell leader captured overnight

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.25.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan – An Afghan and coalition security force captured the Taliban assassination cell senior leader for Kandahar City during an overnight operation in the city.

His group is responsible for several assassinations of Afghan government officials, including the deputy mayor of Kandahar City and a National Defense Service officer earlier this month.

“We’re happy we were able to capture and bring to justice an insurgent leader responsible for killing some of the city’s main public servants,” said U.S. Army Col. Rafael Torres, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. “The deputy mayor and NDS officer stood up for their country and served the city knowing the dangers they faced. We will continue targeting those responsible for crimes against the Afghan populace.”

Based on intelligence tips, the security force targeted a compound in Kandahar City to search for the individual. Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully, and then the security force cleared and secured the area.

After initial questioning at the scene, the security force identified and detained the senior leader along with several of his associates.

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

• Date Taken: 10.25.2010
• Date Posted: 10.25.2010 05:42
• Story ID: 58722
• Location: KABUL, AF