KABUL, Afghanistan – The International Security Assistance Force confirmed a Haqqani Network leader who directs the movement of weapons and materials for insurgent groups operating in Sabari district was captured during an operation in Khost province Nov. 22.
ISAF had already announced the capture of a Haqqani Network facilitator, who was a Top 25 target for the security force, during the same operation.
Intelligence tips led the security force to a compound south of Khan Kalay in Sabari district to search for the Haqqani leadership. Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to exit the compounds peacefully before the joint security force cleared and secured the area. The security force detained the Haqqani leaders along with several of their associates during initial questioning. Multiple automatic weapons were also discovered at the scene.
The women and children remained unharmed and protected throughout the search, which was conducted without shots fired.