KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition forces detained a Taliban leader and improvised explosive device manufacturer during a security operation in Wardak province yesterday.
The Taliban leader operated in Sayyidabad district where he had direct contact with other Taliban leaders for the province. Recent reporting indicates he provided instructions to Taliban insurgents on how to mix explosive device chemicals for future attacks.
Security forces followed leads to a targeted location in the district, where Afghan forces called for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully before conducting a search. The security team detained the Taliban leader based on initial questioning at the scene.
An IED manual, parts and testing equipment along with military uniforms were recovered by the security force.