Afghan, coalition force destroys house-borne IEDs in Kandahar

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.13.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition forces conducted a deliberate clearing operation aimed at disrupting the Taliban’s freedom of movement outside Kandahar City, Tuesday.

The security force discovered and destroyed several house-borne improvised explosive devices throughout the operation.

The joint security force is continuing their efforts to disrupt enemy safe havens in Kandahar province, where Taliban leaders use villages throughout the area to conduct operational planning and prepare for attacks. This operation focused on an area near the village Hajji Soltanmohammad Khan in Panjwa’i district.

Afghan and coalition forces cleared several compounds in the area and discovered that many were rigged with tripwire explosives, IED's and anti-personnel mines. Additionally, the security force detained two suspected insurgents during the operation.

After the security force departed the area and ensured no civilians were present, coalition aircraft and ground forces conducted precision strikes, destroying the compounds.

“As a result of these clearing operations, dozens of dangerous IEDs have been destroyed, severely disrupting Taliban activity and making the areas much safer for its residents,” said U.S. Army Col. Rafael Torres, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. “Additionally, these operations pave the way for counterinsurgency efforts, which will eventually leave Afghans equipped to maintain their own security and governance without the fear of Taliban threats.”

• Date Taken: 10.13.2010
• Date Posted: 10.13.2010 02:06
• Story ID: 57990
• Location: KABUL, AF