Taliban deputy military commander targeted in Helmand overnight

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

09.24.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan and coalition security forces detained several suspected insurgents in Helmand province overnight while in pursuit of a Taliban military commission member for the Babaji area of Nad 'Ali District.

The commission member is also assessed to be the new deputy military commander for the Lashkar Gah and Narh-e Saraj area.

Based on intelligence reports, the security force targeted a remote compound in Nahr-e Saraj District to search for the commander. Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully and then the joint security force began to clear and secure the compound.

During the initial clearance, the security force encountered a padlocked room within the compound. The security force breached the door, and a man hiding inside the room with a blade lunged at the force. The security force pushed him away, but he lunged at them again. At that point, the security force engaged and killed him.

After the area was secure, the security force conducted initial questioning at the scene before detaining four suspected insurgents. The security force also discovered 50 pounds of wet opium, which is often trafficked to fund the insurgency.

The assault force protected the women and children for the duration of the search.

• Date Taken: 09.24.2010
• Date Posted: 09.24.2010 07:50
• Story ID: 56890
• Location: KABUL, AF