UPDATE: Security forces confirm capture of Taliban leader

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

11.17.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition forces confirmed the capture of yet another of Helmand’s Taliban leaders and two additional suspects during a joint security operation in Nawah-ye Barakzai district Nov. 15.

The targeted individual, who recently returned from Pakistan, was trying to provide leadership to Taliban members in Nawah after security forces detained the previous district leader Oct. 18.

The detained individual was directly involved in planning attacks against Afghan and coalition security members and facilitating improvised explosive device materials. The Taliban leader also maintained close ties to other Taliban leaders.

Recent reports indicate the detainee was also involved in planning an upcoming large-scale attack, and thus posed an immediate threat.

Coalition forces constantly adjust techniques to keep ahead of the enemy, said Maj. Gen. Richard P. Mills, commander of Regional Command Southwest in a Nov. 15 article. The Afghan and coalition forces will continue to put pressure on the insurgents in Helmand and Nimroz provinces, providing no place for respite, he added.

Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully before conducting the search. The joint team destroyed several weapons during the search in addition to detaining two additional suspects based on initial questioning at the scene.

The joint security team conducted the operation in the hours of darkness to minimize the risk to local citizens. No women or children were injured or detained during this operation.

• Date Taken: 11.17.2010
• Date Posted: 11.16.2010 22:24
• Story ID: 60283
• Location: KABUL, AF