Two suspected insurgents detained in Helmand

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

08.16.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL- An Afghan and coalition force detained two suspected Taliban insurgents in Helmand province Sunday while in pursuit of a Taliban improvised explosive device manufacturer who specializes in building IED detonators and initiators.

The security force targeted a compound west of Hajji Baha in Marjah District to search for the bomb expert, who regularly tests and purchases Iranian ammonium nitrate. Afghan forces called for all occupants to exit the compound peacefully and then secured the area.

After questioning the residents at each of the compounds, the security force detained two suspected insurgents.

The security force discovered and secured a possible house-borne IED during their search. They also discovered a Taliban standards book at the scene.

"We will track down and capture these bomb experts as long as they continue to threaten the lives of the Afghan people," said U.S. Army Col. Rafael Torres, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. "These weapons are regularly killing innocent women and children and the Taliban are responsible."

The assault force did not fire their weapons and they protected the women and children throughout the search.

• Date Taken: 08.16.2010
• Date Posted: 08.16.2010 04:29
• Story ID: 54640
• Location: KABUL, AF