UPDATE Afghan-led force captures Taliban sub commander in Paktiya

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

08.13.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL - The International Security Assistance Force confirmed the capture of a Taliban sub-commander involved in the facilitation, planning and execution of improvised explosive device attacks during an Afghan and coalition force operation Wednesday.

The security force also detained another IED operative during the same operation.

On Wednesday the security force targeted a compound north of Eslam Kheyl in Zurmat district to search for the commander. Shortly after arriving, two armed insurgents threatened the security force outside the compound. An air weapons team engaged and killed the insurgents, who were armed with automatic weapons, grenades and chest racks.

After the area was secure, Afghan forces called for all residents to exit the compound peacefully and then cleared the buildings. After questioning the residents, the assault force detained the sub-commander and additional suspected insurgents.

One of the other detainees attempted to avoid capture by dressing in women's attire. Additionally, evidence collected at the scene directly linked him to two separate IED attacks.

They found automatic weapons, rocket-propelled grenades with a launcher, and several hand grenades at the scene. The security force protected the women and children throughout the search.

• Date Taken: 08.13.2010
• Date Posted: 08.13.2010 05:09
• Story ID: 54512
• Location: KABUL, AF