Afghan, coalition forces target Taliban leaders

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

01.22.2011

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan and coalition forces targeted a Taliban leader for an improvised explosive device attack cell detaining five suspected insurgents during a joint security operation in Farah province, Jan. 22.

The Taliban leader is responsible for the production and distribution of IEDs to multiple subordinate insurgent groups that emplace IEDs targeting Afghan national security force and coalition members. Additionally, he is involved in intimidation and kidnapping of locals who do not support the Taliban insurgency. The Taliban leader operates primarily in Khak-e Safayd District and is associated with other Taliban leaders in the area.

Security forces followed leads to a targeted location in the district, where Afghan and coalition forces conducted a search after securing the compound. Five suspected insurgents were detained after the compound was secure based on initial questioning at the scene.

In Ghazni province, Afghan and coalition forces targeted the Taliban leader for Muqer District detaining four suspected insurgents during a joint security operation yesterday.

The Taliban leader for Muqer District has direct connections with Taliban leadership and shadow governors in the area. He was also involved with a complex suicide attack that killed four Afghan National Army soldiers and wounded several ANSF personnel in Kabul City, Dec. 19. The Taliban district leader has ordered his group to prepare pressure plate IEDs for future attacks against ANSF personnel according to recent reporting.

Security forces followed leads to a series of buildings in the Muqer District. Afghan forces called out for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully before conducting a search of the compound. After the compound was secure, four suspected insurgents were detained based on initial questioning at the scene and their involvement in insurgent activities.

• Date Taken: 01.22.2011
• Date Posted: 01.22.2011 23:41
• Story ID: 64036
• Location: KABUL, AF