Afghan, US forces kill 12 insurgents in Panjwai

KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN

12.13.2013

Story by Staff Sgt. Brandon McIntosh 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – Afghan commandos killed 12 Taliban fighters and captured one during an operation Dec. 10 to clear insurgent safe havens near Mushan village, Panjwai district.

Insurgents attacked commandos of the 3rd Special Operations Kandak and their U.S. Special Forces partners using rocket-propelled grenades, machine-gun and small-arms fire.

In the ensuing firefight, the forces repelled the assault killing 12 of the attackers and arresting one.

The security forces found and destroyed a radio used by insurgents to direct fighters from a fortified observation post overlooking the village.

“[Security forces] enter these villages quickly using the early dawn to surprise the enemy,” explained Afghan National Army Maj. Abdul Manan, 3rd SOK commander. “At this time of day it is less likely for civilians to be awake and moving around, which helps us keep them safe.”

The captured is in custody of Afghan officials.

• Date Taken: 12.13.2013
• Date Posted: 12.13.2013 07:21
• Story ID: 118177
• Location: KANDAHAR, AF